Free Level 1 Vocational Studies Course in Birkenhead. Classes run at Wirral Met College, daytime, with flexible study over one year. This free vocational studies course covers hospitality and culinary arts, giving you practical skills alongside the communication and workplace skills employers look for. You'll explore a range of subject areas within the industry, helping you decide which direction suits you. No formal qualifications are needed to apply. Basic literacy and numeracy are expected, and the college will carry out an initial assessment before you start.
Who this course is for
Welcome to the Hospitality and Culinary Arts Professional programme at Wirral Met. This programme has been designed to give you the skills and knowledge to start your journey towards your dream career in the exciting Hospitality and Culinary Arts industry. Alongside developing your technical abilities, the programme will help you to get work ready by building on your confidence and interpersonal skills. You will have the opportunity to try out a range of subject areas related to the Hospitality and Culinary Arts, allowing you to explore different career paths and discover your strengths before progressing onto a Level 2 qualification.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry qualifications required to study at this level. Basic levels of literacy and numeracy are expected. If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical culinary and hospitality skills across a range of subject areas.
You'll build communication and interpersonal skills needed in a workplace setting.
You'll explore different roles and areas within the hospitality and culinary arts industry.
You'll gain the confidence and work-ready habits employers expect.
You'll learn how to apply your skills in real hospitality and catering contexts.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Wirral Met College, with flexible daytime attendance. The programme combines practical, hands-on activity with taught sessions covering hospitality and culinary arts. Assessment is built into the programme through coursework and practical tasks. There are no written exams. Your progress is assessed as you work through each area of the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Wirral Met College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef. Entry-level kitchen roles in restaurants, cafes, and hotels.
Kitchen assistant. Supporting chefs in food preparation and service.
Catering assistant. Food service in schools, hospitals, or workplace canteens.
Front of house staff. Customer-facing roles in restaurants and hotels.
Hospitality team member. General roles across food, drink, and guest services.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery. The natural next step if you want to specialise in cooking and work toward a chef role.
Level 2 Diploma in Hospitality Services. Broadens your skills across front of house, food service, and customer care.
Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Maths. Strengthens your core skills and opens doors to further training or employment.
