Free Level 1 Hospitality and Catering Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Longbridge Campus, full-time during the day. You'll cover basic food preparation, cooking methods, food hygiene, and kitchen safety. The course runs for one year and combines hands-on kitchen practice with theory lessons. Entry requires at least an Entry Level 3 Functional Skills English qualification or GCSE Grade 1 in English. If you don't have evidence of a recognised English qualification, you'll take an initial assessment at the start.
Who this course is for
The Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Professional Cookery is the perfect starting point for anyone interested in a career in the culinary industry. This course introduces you to basic food preparation techniques, cooking methods, and essential kitchen practices. You�ll develop foundational skills in working with a variety of ingredients, food hygiene, and kitchen safety, setting you on the path to further culinary training.
Entry requirements
A positive attitude and a willingness to work hard. * Additionally, you should have at least a minimum of an Entry Level 3 qualification in Functional Skills English or GCSE Grade 1
What you will learn
You'll practise basic food preparation techniques using a range of ingredients.
You'll apply different cooking methods in a professional kitchen setting.
You'll follow food hygiene rules and safe kitchen practices.
You'll understand how a professional kitchen operates day to day.
You'll develop skills in working safely with kitchen equipment.
You'll build foundational knowledge to support further culinary training.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical training in a professional kitchen alongside theory lessons in the classroom. Learning includes hands-on food preparation tasks, tutor demonstrations, and group activities. You'll work in a production kitchen environment to practise real cooking techniques under guidance. Assessment is through practical tasks and coursework completed throughout the year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Longbridge Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef: entry-level food preparation roles in kitchens and catering services.
Kitchen assistant: supporting chefs in restaurants, cafes, and canteens.
Hospitality team member: front-of-house and back-of-house roles in hospitality venues.
Catering assistant: preparing and serving food in schools, hospitals, or events.
Commis chef: junior kitchen role, a common first step in how to become a chef.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery: the natural next step, deepening your cooking skills and opening doors to skilled kitchen roles.
Apprenticeship in a commercial kitchen: earn while you learn, applying your skills in a working kitchen environment.
Level 2 Hospitality Team Member Apprenticeship: if you want to develop front-of-house skills alongside food service.
