Qualifications improve your chances; they do not gate the job. Level 2 is the most recognised.
Typical pay: £22,000 to £40,000Level 2 most recognisedOpen entry
Pay range: National Careers Service.
Your route in
You can start without qualifications - direct entry/volunteering; a qualification improves your chances
1
Qualifications employers recognise (Level 2)
Any of these strengthens your application.
2
Where this can take you
With experience you could progress from being a commis chef, preparing and cooking dishes, to sous chef, supervising staff and running a kitchen when the head chef is away. As a head chef, you could train to move into restaurant or hospitality management. If you work for a chain, you may be responsible for managing several sites. You could also set up a catering business or open your own restaurant.
- Professional Cookery Level 3 (NVQ Diploma) L359 courses
- NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery (Level 3) L32 courses
- Level 4 Diploma in Professional Culinary Arts L41 course