The 2010 Acorn Scholarship open for entries

The Scholarship, an independent award now in its 8th year, seeks out young individuals within the catering and hospitality industry and helps them to realise their career ambitions. It is open to individuals who are UK residents and able to work in the UK without restriction. Just one Scholarship is awarded each year to someone who demonstrates passion and potential and who is at a point in their career when winning the scholarship will make a real difference. Applicants are asked to write a submission and 10 finalists are chosen to present to a panel of judges including Michael Caines MBE, chef director aBode Hotels, Gidleigh Park and Bath Priory; James Horler, chairman, Ego Restaurants; William Baxter, deputy CEO, Baxterstorey; Claire Sullivan, marketing director, Unilever Foodsolutions and Jane Sunley, managing director, learnpurple. Michael Caines commented: "I've been involved with the Acorn Scholarship since its first year and it's amazing to see how much vision and passion there is from the individuals that seek to win the Scholarship. This award helps individuals to make a difference to our industry and, in turn, inspires those that work within it. What an opportunity The Acorn Scholarship offers for the future of hospitality." The prize award includes a £2,000 bursury to use for professional development, £1,500 worth of learnpurple training, plus monthly coaching sessions with pearnpurple managing director Jane Sunley, and a trip to Villeroy and Boch in Luxenbourg. Nominations are open from 14 September. For further information on The Acorn Scholarship please visit www.acornscholarship.org.uk or contact Chairman Jon Reed on 0207 836 6999.