Free Entry Level Introduction to the Hospitality Industry Course in Derby. Classes run at YMCA Derby Marble Hall Campus, a purpose-built industrial kitchen in the former Rolls-Royce building on Nightingale Road. The course runs full-time over 34 weeks and covers the basic skills needed for catering and food preparation work. You'll also study Functional Skills and Employability Skills alongside hands-on kitchen experience. This introduction to the hospitality industry qualification leads to roles such as Hospitality Team Member.
Who this course is for
This course is delivered from our large and well-equipped, purpose-built, industrial kitchen, in the former Rolls-Royce building on Nightingale Road, where the college provides the café and catering. This course is delivered over 34 weeks and includes Functional Skills and Employability Skills. It will provide the basic skills needed to work in the catering and food preparation business, and experience of working in a real industrial kitchen.
What you will learn
You'll develop basic food preparation and catering skills in an industrial kitchen setting.
You'll learn how to work safely and hygienically in a professional kitchen.
You'll build practical employability skills relevant to the hospitality industry.
You'll study Functional Skills to support your work and communication in a hospitality role.
You'll gain experience of the day-to-day tasks involved in catering and food service.
How you will learn
You'll learn through hands-on practical sessions in a purpose-built industrial kitchen. Classes are classroom-based and delivered full-time during the day over 34 weeks. The centre also runs the campus café and catering operation, giving you real working context for your learning. Assessment is through the City and Guilds qualification framework, covering both practical skills and knowledge.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. YMCA Derby Marble Hall Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Hospitality Team Member: serving customers and supporting kitchen or front-of-house operations.
Kitchen Assistant: food preparation and basic cooking tasks in a professional kitchen.
Café Assistant: counter service, food handling, and customer-facing work.
Catering Assistant: supporting catering teams in schools, hospitals, or event venues.
Food Preparation Assistant: preparing ingredients and dishes under supervision.
What you could study next
Level 1 Award or Certificate in Food and Beverage Service: develops your front-of-house skills further.
Level 1 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles: a broader introduction to the sector at the next level up.
Level 2 Diploma in Hospitality Services: the step toward a skilled Hospitality Team Member role and further employment opportunities in catering and food service.
