Professional Cookery Diploma in Culinary Skills level 2 – C7087

This course is suitable for students who intend to start a career as a professional chef. The course will allow for the development of basic culinary skills but will progress quickly into the more technical aspects of the hospitality trade. There will be a focus placed on developing an understanding of professional techniques to support progression onto a higher level course in college or into a professional kitchen at a junior level.

As part of the course requirements, you’ll engage in a 20-hour work experience program aimed at honing essential employability skills and preparing you for the next phase of your career journey (scheduled between October and May of the following year). Our dedicated work placement team is available to provide support throughout this process.
Additionally, you’ll take part in activities geared towards personal development, fostering character growth, and building confidence essential for thriving in both personal and professional fields.
For individuals aged 16-19, these activities, along with the work experience program, are scheduled into your timetable, with the option to participate in supplementary activities.
For other age groups, activities will be tailored to meet specific needs and requirements.

Year 1

Support for this is available from our dedicated work placement team.
You will start with the basics, beginning with stocks, soups and sauces. This will progress onto meat, offal, poultry, fish and seafood. There will also be an introduction to biscuit, cake, sponge and fermented dough products.
As a team, we will produce all dishes for Zest to the highest level in our busy café area, where you will be working in a real working environment to help prepare you for employment or further study.

For admission to this course, applicants must provide at least one reference. Additionally, a minimum of 90% attendance is preferred. A grade 3 or above in both GCSE English and maths is mandatory. However, applicants over the age of 19 without formal English and maths qualifications will be considered.
For candidates aged 16-18, enrolment will be in a study program that involves retaking GCSEs or pursuing Functional Skills in English and maths if a grade 4 or higher has not been attained.

This course is very much focused on developing your practical skills within the professional kitchen with an added emphasis on gaining knowledge relating to the catering industry as a whole. The practical units are assessed via observations. These will run alongside five units that are assignment based. The qualification is gained through the completion of units. There will be individual practical tasks throughout the year ending with a synoptic assessment whereby you will have to produce four dishes within a strict timeframe.

Tuition fees

Tuition Fees (16-18): £0.00

Tuition Fees (19+): £2853.00

Additional Costs

Throughout the year, you’ll participate in enriching activities and engage with employers. You’ll require a complete set of catering knives and chef whites, estimated to cost around £280.00. The College offers a means-tested support fund to assist with additional expenses, such as equipment, travel, a £150 material fee, and £30 for trip fees, for eligible students. Applications for the support fund can be made from 1st June 2024. Information about the recommended kit supplier will be provided upon enrolment. Students continuing from a previous course may only need to replace some items.

Material Fees

£150.00

Disclaimer

If the course is longer than one year the total fees are for the first year only and further fees may apply in future years. All fees are based on a ‘home’ learner status. Please contact us for information on overseas fees.

For more information, please see our course fee disclaimers page.

Learn more about fees

Upon completing this course successfully, you have the option to advance to Level 3 VRQ Diploma in Profressional Cookery or Level 2 Certificate in Patiserie and Confectionery. Alternatively, you may choose to enter directly into employment or pursue an apprenticeship. We are dedicated to offering ample support and guidance throughout the course to facilitate your progression and explore various career opportunities.

To start your application, you can either apply online through PS16 or directly through the College website. Make sure to have your previous qualifications, a reference, and a personal statement ready. After submitting your application, you’ll receive a conditional offer. You’ll also be invited to attend a welcome event at the College, where you can meet your tutors, get acquainted with your chosen course, and explore the campus facilities. Upon receiving your offer, you’ll need to confirm your acceptance of the course.