'There’s always something new to learn': Cannock waiter reaches final of fine dining award

The contest was launched in 2012 to inspire and nurture the UK’s up and coming front-of-house talent in food and beverage through mentoring, travel and placement opportunities.

Charlotte, who grew up in Cannock, has been working as the head waiter at the Grill by Tom Booton at the Dorchester in London and is stepping up to the role of breakfast supervisor.

Before moving to London, the 22-year-old graduated from The University Centre Truro & Penwith with a degree in human behavioural studies. She had originally planned on training to become a teacher but after starting work at The Grill, Charlotte “fell in love with hospitality”. “What I love most about hospitality is the ability to create unforgettable experiences for people,” she says.

"Whether it’s through exceptional service, attention to detail, or just a warm and welcoming atmosphere, hospitality has the power to make a real difference in someone’s day. 

“I also love the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the industry – there’s always something new to learn, and every day presents unique challenges and opportunities.”

To develop her skills further, Charlotte decided to apply for the Gold Service Scholarship, which is open to 22-28-year-olds employed full-time in the food and beverage industry. After passing the initial stage, she was selected as a quarter-finalist along with other entrants from across the UK, including Newry, Cumbria, Edinburgh, Lancashire, York, and Perthshire.

The quarter-finals took place took place in October at the Langham and Hotel Café Royal in London, and the group were tested on their food and beverage knowledge through interviews, written assessments and a table layout test.

Charlotte was one of 50 professionals to make it through to the semi-final of the competition at Rosewood London.

After further impressing the judges, she was named as one of the 10 winning finalists and went on to compete in the final at Corinthia London. Winning finalists had to plan, prepare for, and serve a three-course lunch to a table of four guests, including canapés, Champagne and wines, with three dishes served tableside. They were judged on their ‘mise en place’, welcome, table service, wine and beverage service; and most importantly, their professionalism, demeanour, social skills and potential.

After the final, an awards ceremony took place where this year’s Scholar was announced. Although Charlotte missed out on the top award, she says she was delighted to have reached the final.

Along with the other winning finalists, she will be receiving a range of prizes tailored to support her professional development, including a trip to Porto, a bespoke development programme at EHL Hospitality Business School in Lausanne, Switzerland, and the opportunity to work a garden party at Buckingham Palace.

“My most memorable part of the competition has been the opportunity to learn from industry leaders, challenge myself in new ways, and being surrounded by such inspiring peers has been truly invaluable. The competition pushed me beyond my comfort zone and reinforced my confidence in my skills and abilities.

“My ultimate goal is to continue growing within the hospitality industry, gaining experience in leadership roles and making a meaningful impact. Being a finalist in the Gold Service Scholarship has given me incredible exposure and access to networking opportunities that will help me on this journey. The experience has provided me with invaluable mentorship, which will open doors for future opportunities,” she adds.