Level 1 Culinary Skills Course in Croydon. Classes run at Croydon College, full-time during the day. You'll cover kitchen health and safety, food safety, and core cooking techniques including boiling, roasting, and braising. Local employers contribute to the training, giving you a grounded introduction to professional kitchen work. The course runs for 35 weeks. You'll need GCSE English and Maths at grade 2 or equivalent, and a reference showing at least 85% attendance. A great starting point for anyone pursuing a culinary skills qualification.
Who this course is for
You will gain knowledge and skills required to become a chef. At level 1 you will learn the basics of kitchen rules and regulations. You will cover Health and Safety in the Workplace and Food Safety. The techniques of cookery will be taught and assessed such as Boiling, Roasting and Braising. We work with local employers who will contribute to the knowledge and delivery of training. Employers may provide demonstrations and talks on the industry. You will be introduced to the opportunity to visit restaurants of all types from gastro pubs to top-quality establishments, where possible work placements may also be provided by the employers.
Entry requirements
Evidence of a commitment to learn and the ability to study at this level shown at interview; including GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 2 or equivalent. A satisfactory reference will also be requested showing a minimum of 85% attendance.
What you will learn
You'll learn the rules and regulations that govern professional kitchens.
You'll cover health and safety in the workplace.
You'll study food safety and how to apply it in a kitchen setting.
You'll practise boiling, roasting, and braising techniques.
You'll develop the foundational skills needed to work as a chef.
You'll gain knowledge informed by local employers in the hospitality industry.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Croydon College, with practical cookery training assessed hands-on. Techniques such as boiling, roasting, and braising are taught and assessed directly. Local employers contribute to the delivery of training. Your knowledge and practical skills are assessed throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Croydon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef: entry-level kitchen roles in restaurants, cafes, and hotels.
Kitchen assistant: supporting chefs with food preparation and service.
Catering assistant: food preparation in schools, hospitals, or workplace canteens.
Commis chef: the starting grade in professional kitchen brigades.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery: the next step toward working as a qualified chef, covering a wider range of techniques and kitchen disciplines.
Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering: a focused qualification that many hospitality employers require.
Level 2 Functional Skills in English or Maths: useful if you want to strengthen your core skills for further study or employment.
