Free Level 2 food safety in catering course in Southampton. Classes run at Pitman Training Southampton, with a mix of online study and time at the centre. The course covers food hygiene, contamination, temperature control, and food safety legislation. It takes around 10 hours to complete, making it manageable alongside other commitments. No previous experience or qualifications are needed. This free food safety in catering course for adults is open to anyone living in the SO14 to SO19 postcode area.
Who this course is for
This course is offered free to learners who live in Southampton City Council post code area SO14 - SO19. Learners must also meet a certain criteria. Please contact the provider directly to confirm your eligibility.
Suitable for any person planning employment in any aspect of food services provision.
Entry requirements
This is an open access course with no previous experience or qualification required.
What you will learn
You'll identify the main causes of food contamination and how to prevent them.
You'll explain the rules around safe food storage and temperature control.
You'll describe the legal responsibilities of food handlers under UK food safety law.
You'll recognise the risks posed by bacteria, allergens, and physical or chemical hazards.
You'll apply personal hygiene standards required in a catering environment.
You'll understand cleaning and disinfection procedures for food preparation areas.
How you will learn
The course uses a blended approach. You'll complete part of your learning online through a digital platform, then attend sessions at Pitman Training Southampton to consolidate what you've covered. Assessment is by a short multiple-choice test at the end of the course. No coursework or written assignments are required.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Pitman Training Southampton will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Food Safety Supervisor: oversee hygiene standards in a kitchen or food business.
Kitchen Assistant: support food preparation in cafes, restaurants, or canteens.
Catering Assistant: serve and handle food safely in schools, hospitals, or events.
Barista or Café Worker: handle food and drink in a customer-facing setting.
School Meals Supervisor: prepare and serve food in a school kitchen.
Food Production Operative: work safely on a food manufacturing line.
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 kitchen or food business.
Level 2 Award in Allergen Awareness: a short qualification covering allergen legislation and safe handling, valued by employers in hospitality and catering.
Level 2 Hospitality and Catering Principles: broadens your knowledge across the sector if you're building toward a full catering career.
