Level 1 Food Preparation and Cooking Course in Grantham. Classes run at Grantham College, full-time during the day. Fees may apply depending on your circumstances, though fee remission may be available in accordance with current funding rules. This is a hands-on introduction to food preparation and restaurant operations, including practical work in the college's Apple Tree Restaurant. The course runs for 36 weeks and covers the core skills you need to start working in a kitchen. There are no formal entry requirements.
Who this course is for
The level 1 course is a basic introduction to restaurant operations and food preparation within the Apple Tree restaurant. This course is suitable for you if you have studied catering at school or have a passion and interest for cooking at home.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
What you will learn
You'll practise food preparation techniques used in a professional kitchen.
You'll learn how to work safely and hygienically with food.
You'll develop skills in cooking and presenting dishes.
You'll gain experience of restaurant operations in a working environment.
You'll learn how to follow recipes and portion food correctly.
You'll understand the basics of kitchen equipment and how to use it safely.
How you will learn
You'll learn through hands-on, practical sessions in a kitchen environment at Grantham College. Training takes place in the Apple Tree Restaurant, giving you real working conditions to practise in. Assessment is through the NVQ format, which means your skills and knowledge are observed and assessed as you work, rather than through written exams alone.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Grantham College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Kitchen assistant: support chefs with food preparation and cooking tasks.
Commis chef: entry-level chef role preparing ingredients and basic dishes.
Catering assistant: assist with food service in schools, hospitals, or canteens.
Café assistant: prepare and serve food in a café or coffee shop setting.
Food production operative: work in food manufacturing or production environments.
What you could study next
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery: the next step toward a skilled chef role, covering more advanced cooking techniques and kitchen management.
Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering: a short qualification many employers ask for, covering food hygiene and safety in a professional kitchen.
Catering Apprenticeship at Level 2: earn while you learn and build on the skills from this food preparation and cooking qualification in a real workplace.
