Gold Service Scholarship 2024 open for entries

Entries for the 2024 Gold Service Scholarship (GSS) have opened for all front-of-house professionals based in the UK aged between 22 and 28.

Anyone working full-time in food and beverage service at hotels, restaurants, catering companies and private members clubs will have the opportunity to be mentored by industry leaders, as well as attend educational trips.

Training opportunities include a bespoke four-day course at Lausanne’s hospitality business school, study trips to vineyards across Europe, and work experience slots at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok and Hong Kong.

Applicants will be asked to demonstrate their expertise in table preparation, style of service, and salesmanship, while also showing good social skills and maintaining professionalism.

The quarter finals have been scheduled for 21 October at the Langham and 23 October at Hotel Café Royal.

The semi-finals will then take place on 20 November at the Rosewood London, while the final will be held on 15 January at the Corinthia London, with an awards ceremony planned for 5 February at Claridge’s.

The Gold Service Scholarship was launched in 2012 to celebrate and raise the profile of young front of house professionals.

It is organised by a team of volunteers, all of whom have led inspiring careers in the industry. These include Alastair Storey, chairman of Westbury Street Holdings (WSH) and Silvano Giraldin, former maitre-d' at Le Gavroche.

Edwards Griffiths, trustee and chairman of the judges, said: “My fellow judges and I are very excited to be launching this year’s competition, open to all young front-of-house professionals who are looking for ways to develop their skills and knowledge. As always, we look forward to engaging with and supporting the next generation of hospitality talent.”

Jupiter Humphrey-Bishop, the 2023 GSS scholar, added: “My year as the Gold Service Scholar has been incredible. The educational programmes have been truly unique and have enabled me to develop my skills to a level I never imagined could be possible.

“I’ve also been able to meet some amazing people. Whether it’s the Trustees, the sponsors of our study programmes, or the wide network of front-of-house professionals within Team Gold, they have all helped me develop so much.”

Submissions will close before 3 October and the compeition is free to enter.