Free Level 2 Professional Cookery Course in Sittingbourne. Classes run at The Sittingbourne School. This full-time, daytime programme runs over one year and covers the skills and knowledge needed to work in a professional kitchen. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 2 or above, including English and maths. The course suits those who want to develop practical cooking skills alongside the theory behind professional food preparation. It's a strong starting point for anyone asking how to become a chef.
Who this course is for
16-19 year olds
Entry requirements
City and Guilds L2 Diploma - 1 year programme, which could lead on to a Level 3 Advanced Diploma. An average entry requirement at least five grade 2 or above, including English and mathematics. Students will need to show competence in all areas of study, practical skills with flair and creativity are an added bonus.
What you will learn
You'll develop knife skills, cooking techniques, and food preparation methods used in professional kitchens.
You'll learn how to plan and produce dishes to industry standards.
You'll study food safety, hygiene, and health and safety in catering environments.
You'll practise working efficiently under kitchen conditions, including time and resource management.
You'll explore nutrition and the principles behind menu planning.
You'll build practical skills across a range of cooking methods, including hot and cold food preparation.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of practical kitchen sessions and classroom-based theory. Assessment includes practical observations, where you demonstrate cooking skills to your assessor, and written assignments or tests covering underpinning knowledge. The City and Guilds framework requires you to show competence across all assessed units before the Diploma is awarded.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Sittingbourne School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef de partie: section chef in a professional kitchen
Commis chef: junior kitchen role, entry-level professional cooking
Kitchen assistant: supporting chefs in food preparation and service
Catering assistant: food preparation in schools, hospitals, or canteens
Short-order cook: fast-paced cooking in cafés or casual dining
Pastry assistant: supporting pastry and dessert production
What you could study next
Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Professional Cookery (City and Guilds): the natural next step after this qualification, covering more complex techniques and supervisory skills. The provider notes this course can lead directly to the Level 3 programme.
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery: a work-based route that lets you build on your skills in an employed kitchen role.
Food Safety in Catering (Level 2 Award): a short compliance qualification many employers require alongside a cookery qualification.
