The South African Chefs Association (SA Chefs) has announced that applications for the Bryan Montgomery Bursary Fund are open. The fund provides R30,000 towards tuition fees for eligible culinary trainees studying at a SA Chefs Skills Development Provider member institution.
At a glance
- Sponsor/host: South African Chefs Association (SA Chefs) – Bryan Montgomery Bursary Fund
- What it offers: R30,000 towards tuition fees for the current year of study
- Study area: Culinary training / professional cookery (preference noted for Occupational Qualifications: Cook and Chef)
- Who it’s for: Eligible South African citizens aged 18–25 enrolled in a recognised culinary training programme at a SA Chefs Skills Development Provider member
- How it is paid: Funds are paid directly to the Training Provider (not as cash to the student)
- Closing date: 14 February 2025
About the sponsor
SA Chefs is the South African Chefs Association, which supports the culinary profession and training sector in South Africa. Through the Bryan Montgomery Bursary Fund (supported by sponsors), SA Chefs offers structured tuition support for young trainees. The fund’s stated purpose is to contribute towards tuition fees at SA Chefs Skills Development Provider member institutions, using a formal application and approval process.
Fields of study
- Recognised culinary training programmes pursuing a career in professional cookery.
- Preference is given to enrolment in the Occupational Qualifications: Cook and Chef (as stated).
Eligibility
- Age: 18 to 25.
- Have a Grade 12 pass (or recognised equivalent).
- Be enrolled in an existing, recognised culinary training programme (see “Fields of study”).
- Be (or become) a SA Chefs member once enrolled at the culinary school.
- Study must be at a SA Chefs Skills Development Provider Member institution.
- Course duration should be a minimum of 12 months.
- Be a South African citizen residing permanently in South Africa.
- Submit a motivation letter to substantiate the application.
- Successful candidates must be prepared to be available to SA Chefs and sponsors for PR purposes.
Required documents
- Certified copy of your South African ID document.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Acceptance letter from the culinary institution.
- Motivation letter from Principal/Lecturer.
- SA Chefs membership number.
What it covers
The fund provides R30,000 towards tuition fees for the current year of study at a SA Chefs Skills Development Provider member. The fund notes that it does not pay cash directly to students; payment goes to the Training Provider to contribute towards tuition fees.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting without all required supporting documents (especially certified ID copy and membership number).
- Applying while not meeting key criteria (age range, SA citizenship, SA Chefs provider membership, minimum course duration).
- Providing weak or missing motivation letters (your own and the Principal/Lecturer letter).
- Not confirming your training institution is a SA Chefs Skills Development Provider member.
- Waiting until the last day to email—allow time for document certification and collection.
Closing date
Closing date: 14 February 2025.
How to apply
- Prepare your application form and gather the required supporting documents.
- Email your application form and all supporting documentation to: elsu@sachefs.co.za.
- Keep copies of everything you submit and watch for confirmation or follow-up requests.