Free Level 1 Food Preparation and Cooking course in Redditch. Classes run full-time at Heart of Worcestershire College Redditch Campus, with daytime attendance across the academic year. This food preparation and cooking qualification covers practical cooking methods including boiling, poaching, steaming, roasting, grilling, and frying, alongside topics such as health and safety, menu understanding, and food for special diets. There are no formal entry requirements. Entry is by interview and reference. The course takes one year and includes a Level 1 Basic Food Hygiene Award alongside the main qualification.
Who this course is for
Are you passionate about food? Do you dream of a career in catering but don't know where to start? Do you want a qualification that is highly recognised? Whether you are a school leaver or looking to change profession, this City & Guilds certificated course will introduce you to the world of cookery and provide you with the skills and training you need to get a head start in the industry., , You will carry out a range of practical activities in food preparation. You will learn different cooking
Entry requirements
This course has no formal entry requirements. A passion for cooking and a basic understanding of the industry is required. Entry will be subject to a satisfactory reference and interview. , , Entry decisions will be discretionary at interview. Students will continually be assessed through probation period to ensure they are on the correct level.
What you will learn
You'll practise a range of cooking methods: boiling, poaching, steaming, stewing, baking, roasting, grilling, and frying.
You'll prepare vegetables, meat, breads, and sweets.
You'll prepare cold foods, pre-prepared foods, and meals for special dietary needs.
You'll learn how to serve food and beverages.
You'll study health, safety, and hygiene in a catering environment.
You'll explore how menus work and how payments are handled.
You'll cover the principles of bar service and the importance of a healthy diet.
How you will learn
You'll learn through hands-on practical sessions in a kitchen environment, working through food preparation and cooking tasks directly. Assessment is continuous throughout the course. During a probation period, your progress is reviewed to confirm you're working at the right level. You'll also take part in work experience placements and visits to catering establishments, and you'll have the opportunity to enter national competitions.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Heart of Worcestershire College Redditch Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Kitchen assistant: supporting chefs with food preparation and cooking tasks.
Commis chef: entry-level cooking role in restaurants, hotels, or contract catering.
Catering assistant: preparing and serving food in schools, hospitals, or workplace canteens.
Food counter assistant: preparing and presenting food in cafes or retail food outlets.
Hospitality team member: front-of-house and food service roles in hospitality venues.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery: the natural next step for those wanting to work as a commis chef or progress toward a full chef role.
Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering: a short qualification that strengthens your employability in any food-handling role.
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Hospitality Services: broadens your skills across the wider hospitality sector if you want to move beyond the kitchen.
