Level 1 Culinary Skills Course in Southampton. Classes run at Southampton College, part-time during the day. The course runs over 16 weeks, making it manageable alongside other commitments. You'll develop core kitchen skills, covering food preparation, cooking techniques, and safe working practices. Culinary skills classes are hands-on, so you'll need to bring your own chef's whites, knives, and safety shoes (around £200 in total). All ingredients are provided by the college. You'll need a basic understanding of numeracy and must pass a literacy assessment at Level 1 or above at interview.
Who this course is for
Adult part time learners
Entry requirements
You will need a basic understanding of numeracy and, at the required
interview, you will need to pass a literacy assessment at level 1 or above.
You will need catering equipment including full chef�s whites, a set of
knives, and safety shoes costing approximately �200. All ingredients for the
course are provided by the college.
What you will learn
You'll prepare and cook a range of dishes using professional kitchen techniques.
You'll handle and store food safely, following hygiene and food safety standards.
You'll use and care for professional kitchen equipment, including knives.
You'll work to the pace and standards expected in a catering environment.
You'll develop an understanding of ingredients, flavours, and basic menu planning.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical, hands-on cooking sessions in a professional kitchen environment at Southampton College. Assessment is based on your practical performance and skills demonstrated during the course. You may also complete short written tasks or knowledge checks. Your tutor will observe and assess your work throughout the 16 weeks.
What you will need to bring
You'll need to bring your own catering equipment before the course starts. This includes full chef's whites, a set of knives, and safety shoes. The total cost is approximately £200. All ingredients for the course are provided by the college.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef de partie: kitchen role preparing specific sections of a menu.
Kitchen assistant: supporting chefs with prep and service.
Commis chef: entry-level chef role in restaurants or hotels.
Catering assistant: food preparation in schools, hospitals, or care homes.
Café or canteen cook: preparing food in smaller catering settings.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery: the natural next step toward a career as a chef, covering more advanced techniques and kitchen management.
Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering: a short qualification many employers expect from kitchen staff.
Level 2 NVQ in Food and Drink Operations: a work-based route for those already in a catering role looking to formalise their skills.
