Student Chef of the Year 2025

City of Glasgow College was delighted to once again host one of Scotland’s most prestigious culinary competitions – the Knorr Professional Scottish Student Chef of the Year 2025 – and even more proud to see our own students shine on the national stage.

In a thrilling live final on Wednesday, 26 March, held at City campus, Ross Gourlay, HND Professional Cookery student, cooked his way to a well-deserved second place. Ross demonstrated the skill, passion and professionalism that defines our College’s culinary training. Ross was supported by Jamie Robb, just 17, who performed with confidence and composure as assistant chef in a high-pressure, professional kitchen environment.

Their high-level performance, under the guidance of expert lecturer Robbie Philips, highlights the incredible talent nurtured within our award-winning hospitality and culinary programmes.

The competition challenged student chefs from across Scotland to create a two-course menu inspired by the theme ‘Feel Good Food’, emphasising nutrition, wellbeing, and sustainable cooking. Judged on creativity, technique, use of local ingredients and minimising food waste, the event was a true showcase of next-generation talent.

The judging panel – led by Gary Maclean, Scotland’s National Chef and competition ambassador – praised the high standard across the board.

“The level of talent this year was incredible,” said Gary. “Ross and Jamie clearly understood the theme and had the technical ability to bring it to life on the plate. They should be incredibly proud.”

Hosting this prestigious competition reinforces City of Glasgow College’s reputation as a centre of culinary excellence, and we remain committed to inspiring and empowering the chefs of tomorrow.