Free Level 2 Food Safety in Catering Course in Birkenhead. Classes run at Wirral Met College, part-time during the day. You must be 19 or over on or before 31st August to enrol. No formal qualifications are needed. The course runs over 7 hours and covers core food hygiene principles, safe food preparation, storage, and legal responsibilities. It suits anyone working in, or returning to, a food-handling role. Employers in catering and hospitality often ask for a food safety in catering qualification as a condition of employment.
Who this course is for
Many adults can study this course for free. Check the 'Can I study for free?' section below to see if you're eligible. The Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering is a practical, confidence-building course designed for adults working in, or returning to, food-handling roles. It provides clear, accessible guidance on safe food preparation, storage, and hygiene. What You'll Learn Core food hygiene principles How to prevent contamination Safe cooking, cooling, and reheating Legal responsibilities for food handlers This qualification strengthens employability, supports career changes, and helps adults re-enter the workforce with up-to-date, industry-recognised skills. It also enables learners to contribute to safer kitchens and meet workplace compliance standards and is therefore ideal for adults working in catering, returning to employment, or seeking to refresh their knowledge. Completing this award equips learners with practical, workplace-ready skills that improve safety, confidence, and job prospects.
Entry requirements
You must be 19 or over on or before 31st August to study on this course. You should only apply if you have an interest in this career pathway. You do not need formal qualifications for this course but will be considered on your individual skills and experience. You must be able to follow instructions, be willing to work independently, produce answers in a clear and understandable form and organise information clearly. If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrol
What you will learn
You'll understand core food hygiene principles and why they matter in a catering environment.
You'll learn how to prevent contamination during food preparation and handling.
You'll learn safe methods for cooking, cooling, and reheating food.
You'll understand how to store food correctly to reduce the risk of harm.
You'll learn about the legal responsibilities that apply to food handlers and their employers.
You'll know how to maintain personal hygiene standards in a food-handling role.
How you will learn
You'll study in a classroom at Wirral Met College. Learning is delivered through tutor-led sessions covering food hygiene theory and practical guidance. Assessment is by a short written test at the end of the course. You do not need to submit coursework or assignments. You should be able to follow instructions, work independently, and present answers clearly.
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
Food Safety Supervisor, overseeing hygiene standards in a catering kitchen
Kitchen Assistant, supporting food preparation in cafes, restaurants, or schools
Catering Assistant, working in hospitality, healthcare, or education settings
Canteen Worker, preparing and serving food in workplace or institutional canteens
Food Handler, working in food production, retail, or takeaway environments
School Meals Assistant, preparing and serving food in a school kitchen
What you could study next
Level 3 Award in Food Safety in Catering. The next step if you move into a supervisory or management role in a catering environment.
Level 2 Award in Healthier Food and Special Diets. Builds on food safety knowledge with a focus on nutrition and dietary needs.
Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles. Broadens your skills across the wider hospitality sector.
