The Gold Service Scholarship 2020 opened for applications from young hospitality industry professionals earlier this month and the closing date is Wednesday 2nd October 2019.
The Gold Service Scholarship competition, now in its 8th year, is an annual search for ambitious and talented UK front-of-house specialists, aged 22-28, working in Food & Beverage, who aspire to greater professional heights in their careers.
Edward Griffiths, Trustee and Chairman of the Judges, praised the phenomenal quality of candidates and their achievements over the past seven years of the Scholarship. “It has been so gratifying and rewarding to meet and mentor so many young people who are dedicated to their particular craft within the hospitality industry. Each year, we have witnessed the pride they take in their work, and the appreciation they have for their involvement in the Gold Service Scholarship.”
Ranging from waiters and assistant managers through sommeliers and bar staff, the Gold Service Scholarship attracts candidates from hotels, restaurants, catering companies and many other service organisations and venues.
The key common denominator of all Gold Service Scholarship applicants has always been a desire to improve their skill set, to network with like-minded industry colleagues, and to engage with the Trustees and Ambassadors who are active mentors throughout the process.
Applications must be made online on www.thegoldservicescholarship.co.uk.
An explanation of the Scholarship process, with tips on how to apply, is on the website.
Sir Rocco Giovanni Forte with finalists in 2018Following the closing date for entries on 2nd October, the Quarter Finals will take place on 26th October at the Langham and the Hotel Café Royal on 28th October, followed by the Semi-Finals on 25th November at Rosewood London.
The Final testing will be held at Corinthia London in early January, followed by the Gala Awards Ceremony on 12th February at The Berkeley where the new 2020 Scholar will be announced.
Past Scholars proudly explain how much their achievement has meant to their career growth. The current 2019 Scholar, Karen Gruet, who is Assistant Restaurant Manager at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, proudly explained: “The Scholarship has enabled me to develop my knowledge through many incredible learning experiences and has helped me explore many different sides of the front-of-house profession.”
Hospitality consultant and Gold Service Scholarship Ambassador Diego Masciaga also commented: “Service is a huge commitment; anyone can be great for a few days but being consistently able to deliver exceptional service requires a 24-hour commitment, hunger to succeed, humility and honesty – and this is what the Gold Service Scholarship instils in our young professionals.”
Having followed the Gold Service Scholarship for many years here at H&C News, and having attended the Gala Awards Ceremony we can only encourage young front of house professionals from across hospitality to apply and do their best. The prize will set one career firmly in place for the future, entering the process will reward all who are prepared to test themselves.