Level 1 Hospitality and Catering Course in Darlington

CostFREE
Duration34 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Hospitality and Catering Course in Darlington. Classes run at Darlington College, full-time during the day. This hospitality and catering qualification gives you a broad introduction to the industry, from professional kitchen work and baking to front-of-house roles. You'll explore the range of jobs available so you can decide which direction suits you. The course runs for 34 weeks. No formal qualifications are needed to apply; you'll attend an interview and the college will review a school or college report.

Who this course is for

This qualification will give you an insight into the types of jobs that are available within the catering and hospitality industry, from a professional chef and baker to working in front of house, as well as many other job opportunities within the hospitality industry. This qualification will give you an insight into the types of jobs that are available within the catering and hospitality industry, from a professional chef and baker to working in front of house, as well as many other job opportunities within the hospitality industry. You will be able to visit different types of catering and hospitality outlets, restaurants, hotels as well as industrial catering sites. You will be required to participate in trips and visits which may incur costs which you be notified of in a timely manner.

Entry requirements

No formal qualifications but a keen interest in the subject is essential and a satisfactory school report. We will request a school or college report and you will attend an interview at the college.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the range of roles available in the hospitality and catering industry.
  • You'll learn the basics of professional kitchen work and food preparation.
  • You'll discover what front-of-house work involves, including customer service.
  • You'll gain an introduction to baking and patisserie as a career route.
  • You'll develop an understanding of food hygiene and safety in catering environments.
  • You'll learn about the standards and expectations employers have in hospitality workplaces.

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom setting at Darlington College, full-time during the day. Learning is hands-on and practical, covering both kitchen and front-of-house environments. Assessment is through coursework, practical tasks, and observation rather than formal written exams. Your progress will be reviewed throughout the 34-week course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Darlington College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Hospitality Team Member: serving customers in hotels, restaurants, or cafes.
  • Kitchen Assistant: supporting chefs with food preparation and service.
  • Front-of-House Staff: welcoming and seating guests in restaurants or hotels.
  • Catering Assistant: preparing and serving food in schools, hospitals, or events.
  • Barista or Cafe Assistant: making drinks and serving customers in a cafe setting.
  • Baker's Assistant: supporting baking and production in a bakery or kitchen.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery: the next step if you want to train as a chef or work in a professional kitchen.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Hospitality Services: broadens your skills across front-of-house and food service roles.
  • Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering: a short qualification that many hospitality employers ask for. Each of these builds on your Level 1 hospitality and catering certificate and opens up more job options.

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