Originally from Carnoustie, Josh Hirst completed his SVQ in Professional Cookery (Level 6) last year and was awarded the Principal’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement, along with a £100 prize.
For Josh, the award represents far more than academic success. “I’m incredibly honoured to receive the Principal’s Award,” he says. “It reflects a journey that has been challenging, inspiring and genuinely life changing.”
Josh completed a two-year apprenticeship at The Torridon in the Scottish Highlands, an experience he credits with shaping both his skills and confidence in the kitchen. Working alongside an experienced and supportive team pushed him to grow professionally and personally. He speaks particularly highly of his head chef, Danny Young, Guild of Chefs National Chef of the Year, whose leadership and high standards played a key role in Josh’s development. “Learning under him was an opportunity I’ll always be thankful for,” Josh says.
Throughout his apprenticeship, Josh built technical ability, resilience and self-belief. “The experiences I’ve had and the challenges I’ve overcome helped build confidence I didn’t know I had,” he explains. “It’s shown me that with passion, resilience and the right people around you, you really can achieve anything you set your mind to.”
Josh is keen to encourage others to consider education or apprenticeships as a route into their chosen career. “It’s not always easy, but the growth, opportunities and sense of achievement are incredibly rewarding,” he says. He also credits Apprenticeship Hospitality Scotland (AHS) for supporting him throughout his journey and helping him take the first steps towards a career he’s excited to continue building.
Josh’s story is one of determination, growth and ambition — and marks just the beginning of his future in professional cookery.
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