Young chefs invited to apply for £5,000 fund for overseas culinary experiences

The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts has opened applications for the William Heptinstall Award 2026, which offers young chefs significant funds to broaden their culinary experience through overseas travel.

The award, which was established in memory of celebrated chef William Heptinstall, rewards a £5,000 bursary for chosen chefs or pastry chefs under the age of 30 to use to broaden their knowledge.

Applicants will be required to submit a short statement describing how they would use the funds, along with a reference from an employer or tutor. 

Last year’s winner was Alex Lewis, who secured the award while in a sous chef role on the Belmond Britannic Explorer. He used his bursary to complete a Level 3 Wine & Spirit Education Trust refresher course and to travel to Italy for a masterclass in charcuterie making.

He said: “Taking part encouraged me to reflect on my career so far and to consider how I wish to shape my future trajectory, as well as how winning the award could assist with this. The interview stage was especially valuable and gave me the chance to articulate my passions and speak in-depth about my journey as a chef. It was also a pleasure to meet other young chefs that were taking part and to learn more about the initiatives offered by the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts.”

Judges of the 2026 William Heptinstall award include Ritz London executive chef John Williams, Simon Fooks, former managing director of Merchant Taylors’ Catering, and Royal Academy of Culinary Arts chief executive Lisa Jenkins.

Find out more and apply

Photo: Norenko Andrey/Shutterstock