Free Level 3 Professional Cookery Course in Canterbury. Classes run at The Canterbury Academy, full-time during the day. This is a work-based professional cookery qualification, so alongside classroom learning you'll gain hands-on experience in the hospitality industry each week, including visits to local restaurants and London venues. The course runs for 360 hours in total. You'll need at least a Level 1 in Numeracy and Literacy to start, and a background in food technology or a genuine interest in cooking is preferred. Bursaries are available for eligible students.
Who this course is for
This course is a work based qualification and is ideal for students wishing to enter the industry. This provides them with the skills needed to suit the profession. The course also enables them to gain work experience on a weekly basis in the hospitality industry. Students get the opportunity to work in industry and also to see some examples of fine dining and food service in local restaurants and London. This course is designed to equip learners with the skills required to enter the hospitality profession. The
Entry requirements
Preferably studying food technology or generally having a real passion and interest in cooking. At least a Level 1 in Numeracy and Literacy required to start the NVQ
What you will learn
You'll develop professional cooking techniques across a range of dishes and cuisines.
You'll learn how to work safely and hygienically in a professional kitchen.
You'll practise food preparation, cooking, and finishing skills to industry standards.
You'll gain hands-on experience in real hospitality settings through weekly work placements.
You'll observe fine dining and food service in professional restaurant environments.
You'll build the practical skills needed to work as part of a kitchen team.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a combination of classroom-based sessions and weekly work experience in the hospitality industry. Assessment for this NVQ Diploma is competence-based, meaning you'll be assessed on your practical performance in the kitchen and workplace. You'll build a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your skills over the course of the programme.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Canterbury Academy 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: entry-level role in restaurants and hotels
Kitchen supervisor: overseeing a small kitchen team
Catering assistant: supporting food production in catering operations
Pastry chef: specialising in desserts and baked goods
Private chef: cooking for households or events
What you could study next
Level 4 Award in Food Safety Management: moves you into supervisory and management roles in catering.
Level 3 Diploma in Hospitality Management: broadens your skills across front-of-house and operations if you want to move into management.
Apprenticeship (Chef de Partie): consolidates your NVQ skills in a paid workplace setting and is a recognised route into senior kitchen roles.
