Professional Cookery Level 2 Course in Hillingdon. Classes run at Uxbridge College Hayes Campus. You'll study full-time during the day, spending time learning and working in a professional kitchen alongside real catering operations. The course covers the skills and techniques you need to work as a chef in a professional kitchen environment. It runs for 34 weeks.
Who this course is for
This course is for those who wish to make a career in catering, either as a chef or waiter/waitress. Students will have real-life experience working and learning in a professional kitchen with Chartwells who provide and manage our refectory.
What you will learn
You'll prepare, cook, and present a range of dishes to professional kitchen standards.
You'll develop knife skills and safe food handling techniques.
You'll learn how to work efficiently in a professional kitchen environment.
You'll understand food hygiene, health and safety, and kitchen legislation.
You'll practise stock control, portion control, and waste management.
You'll gain hands-on experience working in a live catering operation.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical kitchen work. Assessment is based on observed practical performance in the kitchen and a portfolio of evidence you build throughout the course. You'll be assessed on your ability to carry out cooking tasks to professional standards. There are no written exams for the NVQ Diploma element.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Uxbridge College Hayes Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef de partie: section chef in a restaurant or hotel kitchen.
Commis chef: entry-level kitchen role, how to become a chef starts here.
Kitchen assistant: supporting the cooking team in a professional kitchen.
Catering assistant: food preparation and service in schools, hospitals, or events.
Short-order cook: fast-paced cooking in cafes, canteens, or casual dining.
Pastry assistant: preparation and baking in a pastry or bakery section.
What you could study next
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery (City and Guilds): the next step for chefs aiming for senior kitchen roles such as sous chef.
Level 3 Award in Food Safety in Catering: strengthens your food safety credentials for supervisory kitchen work.
Apprenticeship in Commis Chef (Level 2): combines on-the-job training with a qualification if you move into employment.
