Savoy Educational Trust

Angela Maher, Chief Executive of the Savoy Educational Trust, who judged alongside an esteemed panel, said : “Alexandra was amazing on the day of judging, and it was an absolute pleasure to hear about her journey so far, as well as learning about her future aspirations. It is wonderful to witness such passion for the industry, and this really shone through. Alexandra is a deserving beneficiary of the Ramon Pajares Excellence Scholarship, and we very much look forward to having played some small part in her journey going forward.”

For more details about the scholarship, launched in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, click here

The Savoy Educational Trust are proud to support this inspiring competition, which gives students from FE colleges across the UK the chance to build confidence, push their boundaries, and showcase industry-ready talent, both front and back of house.

Huge congratulations to all twelve finalists of this year’s competition. To find out who the winners were and for more information, please click here.

The Savoy Educational Trust supports young people in Buckinghamshire through Heart of Bucks Young Futures Fund. This fund has been created to support young people (aged 18-30) in the hospitality sector. The grants of £250 -£1000 are aimed at individuals who are committed to a long-term career in the UK hospitality industry to enable them to develop appropriate skills to thrive in this exciting sector. More details on eligibility and how to apply can be found here.

Following an impressive cook-off hosted at the University of West London on Friday 4th April, Loughborough College was named the winner of Zest Quest Asia 2025.

Judging was described as incredibly close, with all panel members noting the consistently high standard across the board and the continued progression of skills year on year. After careful deliberation, Loughborough College was awarded the title for their exceptional four-course menu. As part of their prize, the winning team will enjoy a culinary-themed trip to Hong Kong, generously supported by headline sponsors Lee Kum Kee.

Congratulations to all the finalists on an outstanding achievement. Visit here for more information on the awards.

Chief Executive Angela Maher was honoured to present the Fiona Colley Trainee of the Year award to the very deserving Kyle Steward at the Springboard Awards for Excellence dinner.

This award is dedicated to Fiona Colley, a valued Springboard colleague for eight years who supported people to navigate their challenges, helping them into employment and towards brighter futures. It recognises individuals who have completed a Springboard Employability Programme and triumphed over obstacles to secure employment.

Huge congratulations to all the finalists and winners, it was a fantastic recognition of talent from across the industry. To find out more please visit here.

Congratulations to all the finalists of the 26th Springboard FutureChef competition. Out of over 13,000 entrants, twelve exceptional young competitors demonstrated outstanding dedication, focus, and culinary skill in the national final. It was truly inspiring to witness 14–16-year-olds producing dishes of restaurant quality.

We are delighted to share that Carys Williams, representing Pontarddulais School in Swansea, was crowned this year’s winner. Please read all about the day here.

Activate Learning, a leading educational provider, received funding from the Savoy Educational Trust. The funding supports both Banbury and Bicester College and City of Oxford College and University Centre, which are part of the Activate Learning network.

The £10,000 grant has been allocated towards purchasing a range of professional-grade kitchen equipment, including commercial mixers, food processors, and roasting trays. For more information, please see here

Our Grants and Trust Executive Sarah Tunstall had the pleasure of visiting Coleg Cambria to see their impressive new state-of-the-art training kitchen in action. It is an exciting addition to the college’s hospitality and catering facilities, part-funded by the Trust

The Savoy Kitchen was officially opening by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Vicki Howells MS. For more information, please visit here

The Savoy Educational Trust has extended its support for The Adopt A School Trust as it marks 35 years of food education.

This funding will help the Adopt A School Trust continue delivering food education to schoolchildren across the UK.

Gemma Hopwood, programme manager at The Adopt a School Trust, commented: “This funding allows us to continue providing children with essential cookery skills and knowledge to make informed dietary choices, while also introducing them to the vibrant world of hospitality. We are proud to partner with The Savoy Educational Trust to make a meaningful difference, building the foundation for healthier, sustainable lifestyles and sparking a passion for food and the hospitality industry.” To find out more please visit here.

This project marks an important step in the college’s dedication to supporting students aged 16-25 with communication challenges, including those who are deaf, autistic, or have learning disabilities. The new café will provide a hands-on learning space where students can build their professional skills in a real-world setting.

Angela Maher, Chief Executive of the Savoy Educational Trust, says: “We are delighted to support Communication Specialist College Doncaster in launching their new training café. 

“By providing hands-on experience and essential skills, the café empowers students to achieve their potential while contributing to the hospitality sector and addressing its growing skills gap. This is a fantastic example of how tailored learning environments can make a real difference. We wish them every success with this inspiring project.” For more information please visit: https://shorturl.at/L3HWb