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Level 2 Cookery Course in Darlington

CostFREE
Duration34 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body
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About this course

Level 2 Culinary Skills Course in Darlington. Classes run full-time during the day at Darlington College. If you're 16 to 18 years old as of 31st August, the course may be free. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply. The course runs over 34 weeks and covers the professional cooking techniques and kitchen skills you need to work in a catering environment. You'll need four GCSEs at grade D or above, including English or maths, and you'll be invited for an interview before a place is offered.

Who this course is for

This course is for anyone aged 16+ who would like to develop their culinary skills.

Entry requirements

Preferably you will have successfully completed VRQ , NVQ or a Level 1.

You will be required to have 4 GCSE’s at grade D or 3 points and above which must include English or maths.

We will request a school or college report and all potentially suitable applicants will be invited for interview before being offered a place.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knife skills and food preparation techniques used in professional kitchens.
  • You'll learn how to cook a range of dishes using different cooking methods.
  • You'll understand food safety and hygiene standards required in catering workplaces.
  • You'll practise portion control, presentation, and plating techniques.
  • You'll learn how to work efficiently as part of a kitchen team.
  • You'll understand how to manage ingredients, reduce waste, and control costs at a basic level.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical, hands-on sessions in a professional kitchen environment at Darlington College. Classroom-based theory sessions support your practical work. Assessment is through a combination of practical observations, written assignments, and portfolio evidence gathered throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Darlington College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Chef de partie: section chef in a professional kitchen
  • Commis chef: entry-level role in restaurants and hotels
  • Kitchen assistant: supporting the kitchen team day to day
  • Catering assistant: food preparation in schools, hospitals, or canteens
  • Short-order cook: fast-paced cooking in cafes or diners
  • Pastry assistant: supporting pastry production in bakeries or hotels

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery (City and Guilds) - the next step toward senior kitchen roles and head chef positions.
  • Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering - a short compliance qualification many employers ask for.
  • NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery - work-based route that builds toward a skilled-worker CSCS-equivalent in catering.
  • Apprenticeship in Commis Chef (Level 2) - earn while you learn in a real employer kitchen.
Apply on darlington.ac.uk →
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