The Guild of Food Writers’ annual competitions to discover the best new young chefs and food writers are back for 2009.

Cook It!

CookIt! is open to all young cooks between 10 and 14 years old. The theme for 2009 is ‘High Five!’ - entrants will be asked to create a two-course family meal using five or more different fruit and vegetables. Six finalists will be invited to London on Thursday 4 June 2009, where they will prepare their food in the BBC Good Food magazine kitchens for the panel of judges. Closing date for entries is Thursday 23 April 2009.

Write It!

WriteIt! is open to students between 15 and 18 years old, this year the competition invites articles on a food-related subject. Looking for a real passion and understanding of the chosen subject such as an inspiring person or place, a restaurant review or even a campaigning article will be judges including Charles Campion and Thomasina Miers. Closing date is Tuesday 3 February 2009.

You can find out more information from the Guild of Food Writers website.

The Roux Scholarship is entering its 26th year and is widely acknowledged as the top UK competition for young chefs. Becoming a Roux Scholar is undoubtedly considered the ultimate pinnacle, and many chefs aspire to join this elite band. Many past Roux Scholars have won great accolades, and the competition has established an enviable framework for encouraging talent and helping chefs to achieve their full potential.

The 2009 Roux Scholarship competition is currently accepting applications from British trained chefs between 22 and 30 years old. There are some superb prizes involved, including £5,000 cash and three months training at a three-star Michelin restaurant.

For more information and an application form, visit the Roux Scholarship website.