Take your passion for food to the next level, honing advanced culinary techniques in a professional kitchen environment. From mastering classic dishes to experimenting with modern flavours, you'll develop the skills needed to work in top kitchens or even start your own venture. You’ll learn about kitchen operations, gastronomy, and food safety, gaining insight into what it takes to thrive in the demanding world of professional cookery.
With expert tutors guiding you, you’ll be encouraged to refine your style, build confidence, and apply your creativity to each dish. Whether you see yourself in a high-end restaurant or crafting innovative menus, this course provides the foundation and practical expertise needed to turn your culinary dreams into reality. Your journey will prepare you for roles in restaurants, hotels, or even specialist catering settings. Get ready to sharpen your skills and discover your culinary potential.
You will need a Level 2 Food Preparation and Cooking qualification, or two years of relevant industrial experience. If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of 5 is required.
| Study level | Cost | Additional fees |
|---|---|---|
| 19+ | Please enquire | Please note that you must wear a uniform, which you will be required to to pay for, as well as course items such as stationery, books and equipment. You will also be asked to pay enrichment money to support attendance to a variety of educational visits throughout the year. You may be eligible for support with these costs and also with related costs, such as travel to college or childcare. |
There are online examinations, as well as a requirement to demonstrate practical competence through externally assessed exams. You will also be required to complete assignments throughout the year focusing on live industry based projects.
Learning methods include:
- Practical classes in our skills kitchen
- Group based activities
- Private study
- Demonstrations / industry visits
- Industry placement one day a week for 8 months
English and Maths are important life skills that will help you to achieve your best in your studies and progress to your dream career. If you have not already achieved grade 9-4 in GCSE Maths and/or English, we will support you to improve your skills.
You will be required to take part in an industry placement one day a week for 8 months.
The aim of this course is to develop your knowledge and skills in order to prepare you to gain a job in the industry.
As part of the course, you will study modules including:
- Maintaining food safety when preparing, storing and cooking food
- Developing productive working relationships with colleagues
- Maintaining the health, hygiene, safety and security of the working environment
- Preparing fish for complex dishes
- Preparing meat for complex dishes
- Preparing poultry for complex dishes
- Cooking and finishing complex fish dishes
- Cooking and finishing complex meat dishes
- Cooking and finishing complex poultry dishes
- Preparing, cooking and finishing complex hot sauces
- Preparing, cooking and finishing fresh pasta dishes
- Preparing, cooking and finishing complex hot desserts
- Preparing, cooking and finishing complex cold desserts
Please take note of the following information:
- Students must have full uniform and kit at the start of the academic year, including a suitable knife set
- Due to food safety and awarding body requirements during practical sessions all students must remove all visible jewellery, including facial piercing and keep nails short and polish free
- Students must wear professional dress for practical sessions
- You should have full dexterity and have a good standard of personal hygiene
- As part of this course, you will be required to be able to stand for long periods of time (support arrangements can be put in place if required)
- Students must be able to communicate and work effectively with others
After completing this course, students can pursue advanced culinary training or specialise further in areas like patisserie or kitchen management. Career prospects are diverse, ranging from positions in top restaurants, hotels, and catering companies to opportunities in private dining or food innovation. For those looking to continue their studies, options include higher-level professional cookery courses or hospitality management qualifications. Whether stepping into a professional kitchen or progressing onto further study, this qualification equips students with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in a competitive culinary environment.
Find out everything you need to know about Northumberland College and our exciting range of courses!
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We are the largest further education provider in Northumberland with campuses throughout the county.
Our student transport scheme is available for eligible students to make getting to and from college as easy as possible.
Our extensive re-development programme will create outstanding new facilities.
