Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. Chesterfield College lists a fee of £426 if you're not eligible. Contact Chesterfield College for more info.
Level 1 Food Preparation and Cooking Course in Chesterfield. Classes run full-time during the day at Chesterfield College. The course is free for learners aged 16 to 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply depending on your circumstances. You'll need two GCSEs at grade 3 or above, or the Entry Level Introduction to Hospitality, to join. Over one year, you'll build practical kitchen skills covering food preparation, cooking techniques, and working in a professional kitchen environment. This food preparation and cooking qualification is awarded by City and Guilds.
Who this course is for
16-18 Year Old Learners
Entry requirements
Two GCSEs at grade 3 or above or the Entry Level Introduction to Hospitality.
What you will learn
You'll prepare a range of ingredients using professional kitchen techniques.
You'll cook dishes using different methods including boiling, roasting, and frying.
You'll follow food hygiene and safety practices in a kitchen environment.
You'll work as part of a kitchen team to produce food to a set standard.
You'll handle and store food correctly to prevent contamination.
You'll present dishes to a professional standard.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical, hands-on sessions in a kitchen environment alongside classroom-based study. Assessment is through observed practical tasks and short written assignments. Your tutor will assess your skills directly as you work, checking that you can meet the standards set by the qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Chesterfield 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 prep and service.
Catering assistant: preparing and serving food in schools, hospitals, or canteens.
Commis chef: the starting point for how to become a chef in a professional kitchen.
Food service assistant: front-line food preparation and counter service.
What you could study next
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery: the natural next step, covering more advanced cooking techniques and kitchen management.
Level 2 Food and Beverage Service: if you want to move into front-of-house hospitality roles.
Level 2 Hospitality Team Member Apprenticeship: combines on-the-job training with a recognised qualification and paid employment.
