Acorn Scholarship 2016 opens for entries

The hunt is on for the latest Acorn Scholar as the 2016 Acorn Scholarship is now open for entries.

The Acorn Scholarship is an independent award created by previous winners of The Caterer's Acorn Awards. Now in its 14th year, the competition is a chance for young managers, chefs, sommeliers or any young high achievers involved in hospitality to make a name for themself by presenting their skills and ambitions to some of the most respected names in the industry.

There is a prize equal to more than £5,000 in value and the winner will become part of the prestigious Acorn Scholarship alumni.

The panel of judges preparing to interview the successful finalists this year includes Sean Wheeler, director of people development at Starwood Capital - city hotel division; James Horler, chief executive of 3Sixty Restaurants, and Hannah Horler, managing director of Cartwheel Recruitment.

Jo Harley, director of employee engagement specialist and Acorn Scholarship patron PurpleCubed, said: "As people and talent specialists, PurpleCubed take on the role of coach for the winning Acorn scholar each year and the judges and I will be looking for a determinedly ambitious individual; a leader of tomorrow with drive and passion for our diverse, fast moving, and exciting industry."

Amanda Afiya, editor of The Caterer and Scholarship judge, added: "Once again, we are delighted to support the Acorn Scholarship, which is a unique award in helping its scholars to achieve their dreams. The rare blend of both a financial bursary and the ongoing insight and guidance from its mentors and judges is priceless, and we don't have to think twice about lending our weight to such an impressive scheme."

Applicants are asked to complete an online entry form and successful shortlisted finalists will then need to be available to present their submission to the judges on 23 November 2016 at Westminster Kingsway College, London.

The winner of the 2016 Acorn Scholarship will be announced on the same day at an evening presentation dinner at the college.

To enter go to www.acornscholarship.org.uk. The closing date is 23 October.