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Free Level 1 Hospitality and Catering Course in Ipswich

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 1 Hospitality and Catering Course in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College, full-time during the day. This is a hands-on hospitality and catering qualification covering both kitchen and front-of-house restaurant skills. You'll work in a real college restaurant, develop bakery skills, and take part in high-profile events including competitions and festivals. Guest chefs and industry professionals contribute to your training throughout the year. You'll need two GCSEs at Grade 1 including maths and/or English, or show the ability to work toward Level 1 in an assessment.

Who this course is for

This is the study programme that will challenge both your kitchen and restaurant skills and inspire you to craft your own dishes and get your own style. Guest chefs and industry professionals will take you to the next level of taste and service! You will showcase your talents at festivals and competitions such as the Suffolk Show and University of Suffolk Summer Ball – you will work on a range of high profile events in our own Shelley’s restaurant and develop your bakery skills in our Granary.

Entry requirements

Two GCSEs at Grade 1 including maths and/or English, or demonstrate the ability to work towards Level 1 in maths and English in an assessment.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop kitchen skills including preparing and crafting your own dishes.
  • You'll build front-of-house and restaurant service skills.
  • You'll practise bakery techniques in a dedicated bakery space.
  • You'll work on live events such as festivals and formal dinners.
  • You'll learn from guest chefs and hospitality industry professionals.
  • You'll develop your own cooking style and presentation skills.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical sessions in a working college restaurant and bakery. Classroom-based teaching is combined with hands-on kitchen and service work. Assessment includes practical tasks and work on real events. You'll be assessed on your kitchen skills, restaurant service, and your ability to produce dishes to a professional standard.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Hospitality team member: serving customers in restaurants, cafes, or hotels.
  • Kitchen assistant: supporting chefs in food preparation and service.
  • Barista or café assistant: preparing drinks and serving customers.
  • Front-of-house staff: taking orders and managing the dining experience.
  • Catering assistant: supporting food production in large catering operations.
  • Events catering staff: working food and drink at festivals and functions.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery: the next step if you want to develop your kitchen skills further and work toward a chef role.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Hospitality Services: builds on restaurant and front-of-house skills for roles in hotels and larger venues.
  • Level 2 Food and Beverage Service: focuses on professional service skills for restaurants and hospitality settings.
Apply on suffolk.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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