The Acorn Scholarship 2015 opens for entries

The Acorn Scholarship, an independent award created by previous winners of The Caterer's Acorn Awards has launched its search for the 2015 Acorn Scholar.

Now in its 13th year, the competition is a chance for a young manager, chef, HR manager, sommelier, or any young high-achiever involved in hospitality to make a name for them self by presenting their skills and ambitions to some of the most respected names in the industry.

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

The panel of judges preparing to interview the successful finalists this year includes guest judge Mark Sargeant, chef proprietor of Rocksalt and The Smokehouse in Folkestone, Kent and previous head chef at Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's.

Other judges include: Stefan Horsnell, category marketing director at Unilever Food Solutions, Sean Wheeler, area director of human resources for the Dorchester Collection UK; James Horler, chief executive of 3Sixty Restaurants and Hannah Horler, managing director of Cartwheel Recruitment.

Jane Sunley, chief executive of PurpleCubed, said: "As a people and talent specialist; I take on the role of coach for our winning 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."

Applicants are asked to complete an online entry form and the shortlisted finalists will be asked to present the submission to the panel of judges on the 24 November at Westminster Kingsway College, London. The winner of the 2015 Acorn Scholarship will be announced on the same day at a dinner at the college.

To enter go to www.acornscholarship.org.uk. The closing date is 24 October.