Free Level 1 Professional Cookery Course in Gravesend

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start13 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Introduction to Professional Cookery Studies Course in Gravesend. Classes run at North Kent College Gravesend, full-time during the day, over one year. You'll build practical kitchen skills and knowledge across kitchen equipment, health and safety, food hygiene, and professional workplace practice. This introduction to professional cookery studies qualification is a solid first step toward qualified chef status. The course suits those starting out and adults returning to study.

Who this course is for

This programme is suited to learners wanting a practical experience developing skills and knowledge leading to qualified chef status. The programme is aimed at school leavers as well as adults looking to get back into study and achieve a professional qualification in this desirable vocational area.

Stage one of this programme concentrates on the development of the knowledge of the professional kitchen with units on - kitchen equipment, Health, safety and food hygiene and professional workplace skills. Cookery classes, together with work experience in our contemporary restaurant and canteen, develop an understanding of preparation and cooking techniques such as steaming, stewing, roasting and frying.

Stage two of the programme continues the development of cookery skills and associated knowledge based on classic French cookery. Terms such as macedoine, roux and béchamel can be displayed alongside a broader range of dishes and commodities. Taught through practical and theory sessions in our training kitchen and classrooms, it is also demonstrated through work as a Chef de Partie (Section Head) in our contemporary restaurant and canteen. In addition, work placements and experiences with our business partners further develop these skills leading to paid employment and apprenticeships.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to use and care for professional kitchen equipment safely.
  • You'll develop knowledge of health, safety, and food hygiene standards in a professional kitchen.
  • You'll understand how a professional kitchen workplace operates.
  • You'll practise core cookery techniques used in catering and hospitality settings.
  • You'll build the foundational knowledge needed to progress toward qualified chef status.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions and hands-on practical work in a professional kitchen environment. Assessment covers your knowledge and practical skills across units including kitchen equipment, health and safety, food hygiene, and professional workplace practice. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm that this Level 1 programme is the right starting point for you.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. North Kent College Gravesend will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Chef de partie: section chef in a professional kitchen
  • Kitchen assistant: supporting the kitchen team day to day
  • Commis chef: entry-level cooking role in restaurants or hotels
  • Catering assistant: food preparation in schools, hospitals, or canteens
  • Café or bistro cook: preparing food in smaller hospitality settings

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery: the next step for those working toward how to become a chef in a professional kitchen, covering a wider range of cooking techniques and kitchen management.
  • Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Professional Cookery: for those aiming at senior kitchen roles or head chef positions.
  • Apprenticeship in Commis Chef: combine on-the-job training with a recognised qualification while earning.

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