Level 2 Culinary Skills Course in Nottingham. Classes run at Nottingham College City Hub, full-time during the day. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though funding may still be available. You'll train in a professional kitchen environment, learning to plan, prepare and cook a wide range of dishes, from meat and fish to soups, pastry and salads. The course runs for one year and includes work experience to build practical, industry-ready skills.
Who this course is for
This course is perfect if you're aged 19+ and you love the buzz of being in a kitchen and creating tasty and inspiring dishes.
Entry requirements
You'll need 4 GCSEs at grades 9-3 (A*-D), including English Language and Maths - one of English Language or Maths must be grades 9-4 (A*-C). Functional Skills Level 1 can be used as equivalent to GCSE grade 3 (D) and Functional Skills Level 2 can be used as equivalent to GCSE grade 4 (C) or above.
What you will learn
You'll plan and prepare meals on a large scale for different types of customers.
You'll cook meat, fish, poultry, soups, salads and pastry dishes to professional standards.
You'll use industry-standard kitchen equipment safely and confidently.
You'll maintain food safety and hygiene in a kitchen environment.
You'll gain practical cooking experience through work placements in real catering settings.
How you will learn
You'll learn through hands-on practical sessions in a professional kitchen, alongside classroom study. Assessment includes timed practical cooking assessments and short answer questions. You'll also complete work experience to apply your skills in a real catering environment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Nottingham College City Hub will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef. Entry-level cook role in restaurants, hotels or catering.
Kitchen assistant. Supporting chefs in busy professional kitchens.
Commis chef. Junior chef position, a common first step in the industry.
Catering assistant. Food preparation and service in schools, hospitals or events.
Pastry chef. Specialist role in bakeries, hotels or restaurants.
What you could study next
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery. The next step for chefs moving into skilled kitchen roles.
Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Professional Cookery. A higher-level qualification for those aiming at senior chef positions.
Apprenticeship in Professional Cookery. Earn while you learn in a working kitchen, combining on-the-job training with formal study.
