A central element of the course is the work-related experience. All learners operate the service at our Bwyty Maes y Parc or Aberista, the on-site training restaurants at our Cardigan and Aberystwyth campuses. Here you will gain a realistic view of the demands of working in the catering industry in a safe and supportive environment.

You will be taught culinary and food service skills by experienced staff through lively demonstrations and practical skills sessions. The hands-on experience in the training restaurant provides ample opportunity to put these skills into practice. 

The Introduction to Professional Cookery programme gives candidates the opportunity to develop the basic skills in catering by exploring the cooking methods needed to prepare, cook and finish traditional French cuisine.

The Food Service programme allows learners to gain knowledge of the food service industry through a selection of units tailored towards the demands of a professional waiter, from bar work, specialist coffee service and cashiering.

You will have plenty of support in developing your customer service and kitchen skills and techniques, and your experiences on the course will help you understand the pathways open to you in the industry.

Successful completion of the course will enable you to progress to higher-level courses such as the level two Professional Cookery, and the level two Professional Food and Beverage courses. 

Units are assessed through observation of practical work in our training restaurants and practical cooking exams set by the awarding body. Candidates must also successfully complete underpinning knowledge questions. These questions can be in written format or recorded using media platforms, projects, or extended writing assignments.

GCSE grades A*-G in English or Welsh (1st Language) and maths will be an advantage. A successful interview is also required.

All learners will follow a Skills Pathway in which they will develop their literacy and numeracy skills for employment. Students who do not yet have the necessary GCSE grades at C or above will have additional teaching and support to study for either GCSE or Essential Skills Qualifications depending on prior GCSE grades.

A full uniform which adheres to food safety regulations and the college dress code, textbook and knife set will have to be purchased. These can be purchased through our nominated supplier, or previously purchased uniform and equipment could be accepted with the permission of the course tutor.  

Educational excursions at home and abroad are also offered to learners on this course.  Work experience can be offered at no extra cost to the learner. An additional Food Safety level two is offered at no additional cost.