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 develop culinary and food service skills by working with 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 professional cookery programme gives candidates the opportunity to progress their experience and skills in catering by exploring the cooking through a range of food-based units, from meat, fish and poultry to desserts, pastry and cakes.

The food service programme allows learners to develop their knowledge of the food service industry through a selection of units tailored towards a chef de range in a high-class food service establishment, from developing wine and drink knowledge to some table theatre and controlling a reception area.

You will develop your team working, customer service and kitchen skills and techniques, and your experiences on the course will help your understanding of the hospitality industry and the wide choice of potential pathways within it.

Successful completion of the course will enable you to progress to higher-level courses such as the level three Diploma in Professional Cookery and Professional Food and Beverage Service Supervision programme or into employment or an apprenticeship.

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.

Successful completion of level one qualification in professional cookery or a level one in hospitality services.  Learners with prior industry experience will also be welcomed and considered.

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.

All learners are required to pay an administration fee of £25 prior to enrolment.

You will need to provide your own stationary, and may also incur costs if the department arranges educational visits.