Level 1 Culinary Skills Course in Leeds. Classes run at Leeds City College Printworks Campus, full-time during the day. The course runs for one year. It is free if you are 16 to 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply, though a Learner Loan may be available. You will build practical cooking and kitchen skills through hands-on training in catering facilities. The course covers food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen safety. It is a strong starting point for anyone heading toward a career as a chef or in hospitality.
Who this course is for
If you’re in year 11 or 12 and are looking to take the next steps towards your career these courses are for you. Our vast selection of vocational courses span a range of subjects and combine academic study with practical skills. Study in industry standard facilities and use our industry links to prepare for progression.
Entry requirements
A strong interest in food and/or customer service is essential. A good understanding of written and spoken English is required. You will also need to be under 18 years of age. Grade 2 in Maths and English
What you will learn
You'll prepare and cook a range of dishes using professional kitchen techniques.
You'll follow food hygiene and kitchen safety procedures.
You'll handle, store, and prepare ingredients correctly.
You'll use professional catering equipment safely.
You'll develop knife skills and basic cookery methods.
You'll understand how a professional kitchen operates.
How you will learn
You will learn through practical, hands-on sessions in a professional kitchen environment. Assessment is based on practical tasks and assignments completed throughout the course. You will be assessed on your ability to prepare and cook dishes to a set standard. There may also be written or knowledge-based tasks to complete alongside your practical work.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Leeds City College Printworks Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef: entry-level kitchen roles in restaurants and cafes.
Kitchen assistant: supporting chefs in a professional kitchen.
Catering assistant: food preparation in schools, hospitals, or events.
Commis chef: junior chef role, how to become a chef starting point.
Food service assistant: serving and preparing food for customers.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery: the natural next step, covering a wider range of cooking skills and kitchen roles.
Level 2 Diploma in Food and Beverage Service: if you want to move into front-of-house hospitality work.
Catering and Hospitality Apprenticeship: earn while you train and gain on-the-job experience in a real kitchen.
