Level 3 Professional Cookery Course in Altrincham. Classes run full-time at Trafford and Stockport College Altrincham Campus, five days a week during the day. The course runs over two years and covers the skills and knowledge needed to work as a chef in professional kitchens. To apply, you'll need four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including maths and English, plus a Level 2 City and Guilds qualification in a related subject.
Who this course is for
Please contact the College for details as to who this course is aimed for
Entry requirements
4 GCSE's at Grade 4 or above (including maths and/or English Language)Level 2 City & Guilds or equivalent qualification in a related subject.
What you will learn
You'll develop knife skills and professional food preparation techniques.
You'll learn how to cook across a range of culinary methods, including stocks, sauces, and pastry.
You'll practise menu planning and dish presentation to professional standards.
You'll apply food safety and hygiene practices in a kitchen environment.
You'll understand kitchen operations, including costing and portion control.
You'll build skills in working as part of a kitchen brigade.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical kitchen sessions and classroom-based study at the Altrincham Campus. Assessment for the NVQ Diploma combines practical observations, where an assessor watches you work in the kitchen, with written assignments and knowledge tests. You'll build a portfolio of evidence over the two years to demonstrate your competence across the qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Trafford and Stockport College Altrincham Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Chef de partie. Runs a specific section of a professional kitchen.
Commis chef. Entry-level role supporting senior chefs in a brigade.
Pastry chef. Specialises in desserts, bread, and patisserie.
Sous chef. Second-in-command in a kitchen, overseeing daily operations.
Private chef. Cooks for individuals, families, or corporate clients.
Catering supervisor. Manages food production in large-scale catering settings.
What you could study next
Level 4 Diploma in Professional Culinary Arts. A natural next step if you want to move into senior kitchen roles or management.
NVQ Level 3 in Hospitality Management. Broadens your skills into front-of-house and operations if you're interested in running a venue.
Apprenticeship as a chef. Some employers offer higher-level apprenticeships that combine work experience with further qualifications.
