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When I was encouraged by my chef Keith Podmore to enter this new competition that the Roux brothers had started back in 1985 I had no idea the huge influence the scholarship would have on my career and life.
I had applied, unsuccessfully for a commis position in a number of kitchens in France. At that time it was unheard of for a British chef to gain entry into a 3* Michelin in France, so winning the scholarship at the age of 20 was both terrifying and exciting. Now 21 years on it makes me immensely proud to see how the scholarship has evolved into THE most influential, worthwhile and most sought after culinary prize in Britain today. But it’s not just about winning a competition, it’s about joining a very elite chefs club and taking on the responsibility of being a Roux Scholar. I can honestly say that I would not have been as successful if I had not won the scholarship and all the support it has given me over the years.
It was a great honor after the 21st anniversary to be invited to join the judging panel of the scholarship, the fact that I was replacing Victor Ceserani who was a judge when I won the scholarship made it all the more special. When I look at the quality of the past and present judges, not to mention the list of previous winners its not a role that I take lightly.
I am looking forward to seeing the scholarship continue to grow over the next 21 years, and the opportunity to welcome more talented young chefs into the Scholars Club.
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