Level 2 Culinary Skills Course in Paignton. Classes run at South Devon College, full-time over three days a week for one year. You'll develop practical cooking techniques including baking, roasting, grilling and frying, alongside key knowledge in health and safety and food service. The course covers both food preparation and cooking, giving you a grounding in hospitality and catering work. A genuine interest in the subject is all you need to get started.
Who this course is for
This full time, three day week course is for you if you want a career within the hospitality and catering industry, and would like to train in preparing and cooking or service of food.You will develop practical skills and knowledge, as you master skills and techniques surrounding hospitality and catering such as baking, roasting, grilling, frying and many others. You will also gain key employability skills and essential knowledge relating to important topics in the industry, including health and safety and customer care. There will be a requirement to complete organised work experience at some point in the academic year.In addition, you will complete a Level 2 Certificate in Professional Food and Beverage Skills, and an Alcohol Awareness course. Upon completion, you could progress onto a Level 2 Patisserie and Confectionery qualification, seek a catering or hospitality apprenticeship or enter full-time employment.
Entry requirements
You should have a genuine interest in this subject
What you will learn
You'll practise a range of cooking methods including baking, roasting, grilling, and frying.
You'll develop food preparation and presentation skills used in professional kitchens.
You'll learn about health and safety practices relevant to catering environments.
You'll gain knowledge of food service and hospitality operations.
You'll build employability skills valued by employers in the hospitality and catering industry.
How you will learn
You'll learn through hands-on practical sessions in a classroom and kitchen environment at South Devon College. The course combines practical cooking activities with taught knowledge sessions covering industry topics. Assessment is based on practical skills demonstrations and knowledge-based tasks throughout the year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Devon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef de partie: works a specific section in a professional kitchen.
Commis chef: entry-level kitchen role supporting senior chefs.
Kitchen assistant: supports food preparation and kitchen operations.
Catering assistant: prepares and serves food in catering settings.
Short-order cook: fast-paced cooking in cafes, diners, or canteens.
Food service assistant: front-of-house service in restaurants or hospitality venues.
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery: deepens technical skills and prepares you for senior kitchen roles.
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Hospitality Services: broadens your options across the wider hospitality sector.
Apprenticeship in Commis Chef (Level 2): combines on-the-job training with further study, recognised by employers across the industry.
