Free Level 3 Professional Cookery Course in Bexhill-on-Sea. Classes run at Bexhill College, full-time during the day, over one year. This course builds on Level 2 culinary skills, developing the advanced kitchen and larder techniques needed to work as a chef in a professional kitchen. You'll gain a higher level of understanding and responsibility, giving you an edge in a competitive industry. Entry typically requires a relevant Level 2 Diploma in Culinary Skills or Professional Cookery, or equivalent experience. Students without English and maths at grade C/4 or above will study these alongside the course.
Who this course is for
This course builds on the professional kitchen and larder catering skills learnt at Level 2 and develops the skills and knowledge needed to work as a chef in a professional kitchen. This qualification is designed to help you enter employment with a higher level of understanding and responsibility or to be able to start at a more prestigious establishment. As the Catering industry becomes ever more competitive, the advantage lies with those chefs who successfully attain both higher level qualifications and skills, alongside concrete industrial experience. The Level 3 Advanced Diploma will help to provide you with the skills and experience to progress your career and give you a competitive edge.
Entry requirements
You are likely to have previous experience and/or a relevant Level 2 Diploma in Culinary Skills/Professional Cookery or equivalent qualification. Students who do not have English and Math at grade C/4 or above will be required to study these alongside this qualification.
What you will learn
You'll develop advanced kitchen and larder preparation techniques to professional standard.
You'll learn how to plan, prepare, and cook complex dishes using a range of methods.
You'll build knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen management at a higher level.
You'll practise larder work including charcuterie, curing, and cold preparation skills.
You'll understand how to work with greater responsibility in a professional kitchen environment.
You'll develop the skills needed to perform at a higher level in competitive catering establishments.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based teaching and practical kitchen sessions at Bexhill College. Assessment includes practical observations, where you demonstrate your cooking skills to a set standard, alongside written assignments and knowledge tests. Your progress is assessed throughout the course rather than in a single final exam.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bexhill College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef de partie: runs a specific section in a professional kitchen.
Sous chef: second-in-command, supports the head chef daily.
Larder chef: specialises in cold preparation and larder work.
Commis chef: entry-level role in high-end or brigade kitchens.
Kitchen supervisor: oversees kitchen operations and junior staff.
Catering manager: manages food production across a catering operation.
What you could study next
Level 4 Diploma in Professional Culinary Arts: moves into senior chef and kitchen management territory.
Food Safety in Catering qualifications (Level 3 or 4): useful for supervisory and management roles where formal food safety certification is expected.
Apprenticeship at Chef de Partie or Sous Chef level: combines on-the-job experience with structured training in a working kitchen.
