Level 2 Culinary Skills Course in Southampton. Classes run at Southampton College, part-time during the day. The course runs over 31 weeks, giving you time to build your skills alongside other commitments. You'll develop professional cooking techniques used in commercial kitchens, covering everything from food preparation to finished dishes. The culinary skills classes are open to people already working in catering and those looking to move into it. An interview and assessment test are part of the application process. You'll need to bring your own chef's whites, knives, and safety shoes.
Who this course is for
Adult part time learners
Entry requirements
You will either already be working in the catering industry or wishing to make catering a professional career. Appropriate levels of English and Maths will be required for the course and at the required interview all applicants will have an assessment test.You will need catering equipment including full chef�s whites, a set of knives and safety shoes costing approximately �200. All ingredients for this course are provided by the college.
What you will learn
You'll prepare and cook a range of dishes to professional kitchen standards.
You'll develop knife skills and safe food handling techniques.
You'll learn how to work efficiently in a commercial kitchen environment.
You'll study food hygiene and health and safety practices.
You'll practise menu planning and understanding of ingredients.
You'll build speed and consistency in food preparation.
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 practical tasks and observations of your cooking skills. You may also complete written assignments covering food safety and kitchen knowledge. All ingredients are provided by the college.
What you will need to bring
You'll need to bring your own catering equipment before you start. This includes a full set of chef's whites, a set of knives, and safety shoes. The college estimates this costs around £200. All ingredients for the course are provided by Southampton College.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef de partie: section cook in a professional kitchen
Commis chef: entry-level role in restaurants or hotels
Kitchen assistant: food prep and support in catering operations
Catering assistant: food service in schools, hospitals, or care settings
Short-order cook: fast-paced cooking in cafes or diners
Sous chef: with further experience, second-in-command in a kitchen
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery (City and Guilds) - the next step if you want to move into senior kitchen roles or specialise further.
Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering - a short compliance qualification many employers ask for.
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery - work-based route for those already in a kitchen role looking to formalise their skills.
