Careers:TRAINING

Nine young caterers aged 20–24 have been awarded travelling scholarships by the Hotel and Catering Industry Training Board under a scheme announced last year. The 18 finalists each received a copy of the Larousse Gastronomique. The scholarships are intended to help young people working in the industry, or studying for careers in the industry, to further their careers by undertaking periods of work or study overseas. The Board recognise that many young people already do this, but sometimes their efforts are constrained by lack of resources. The scholarships attracted more than 120 applicants between the ages of 18 and 25, most of whom were of a high standard. Applications were judged on their originality and the way they mirrored the individual's commitment to the industry. There were three categories of awards, ranging from craft to management level. Applicants were invited to say how the award of a sholarship would benefit them as individuals, and how it would ultimately benefit the industry by furthering their training and experience. It was emphasised that academic achievement would not be one of the principal criteria involved.