Professional Cookery Level 2 Course in Hackney. Classes run full-time at New City College Hackney Campus, five days a week during the day. This level 2 professional cookery course runs for 44 weeks and covers the core skills working chefs use every day. You'll learn food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen operations across a range of dishes and cuisines. The course builds the practical foundation you need to work in a professional kitchen.
Who this course is for
16 to 18
What you will learn
You'll prepare and cook a range of dishes using professional kitchen techniques.
You'll develop knife skills and safe food handling practices.
You'll learn how to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
You'll study food safety and hygiene standards required in catering workplaces.
You'll cook dishes across different food groups, including meat, fish, vegetables, and pastry.
You'll understand portion control, presentation, and plating standards.
You'll follow recipes accurately and adapt to kitchen instructions.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical, hands-on sessions in a professional kitchen environment at the college. Assessment is based on observed practical performance and written tasks. You'll be assessed on your ability to prepare and cook dishes to a professional standard. A portfolio of evidence supports your practical assessments throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. New City College Hackney Campus 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 role supporting senior chefs in a kitchen.
Kitchen assistant. Supports food preparation and service across a kitchen.
Catering assistant. Prepares and serves food in schools, hospitals, or canteens.
Short-order cook. Prepares quick-service food in cafes or fast-casual restaurants.
Pastry assistant. Supports pastry and dessert production in a kitchen.
What you could study next
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery. The next step for chefs moving into senior kitchen roles such as sous chef or chef de partie.
Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering (City and Guilds or Highfield). A short compliance qualification many employers require alongside a cookery qualification.
Level 3 Diploma in Professional Patisserie and Confectionery. For those who want to specialise in pastry and dessert work.
