Professional Cookery VRQ Level 1

Start Date: September 2010

End Date: June 2011

Venue: Coleg Powys Newtown

Tutor: Mandy Carter

Who is this course for? For those who love food and enjoy the practical daily challenges of an exciting industry, ideal for individuals who are positive and lively. The aim of this programme is to help you gain the necessary skills to do well in this dynamic industry. Culinary and food service skills will be taught by practical, lively demonstrations. Regular 'hands-on' experience will allow you to practice the skills they have learnt.

Previous knowledge required: A genuine interest in food and customer care and the ability to succeed and have fun in a challenging environment are essential. A GCSE in a food related subject is desirable. Acceptance to the programme will be by interview and the outcomes of initial guidance. Applications from mature students, those working in the industry or those wishing to return to a hospitality related environment are particularly welcomed.

What will I study? This programme reflects the needs of the hospitality industry. The course is largely practical with essential theory being taught using IT and case studies. You will also study NVQ Food & Drink Service alongside the VRQ, where you will develop the essential skills to work in a busy restaurant. You will develop the necessary communication and customer care skills to turn you into a polished professional, an asset to any employer. In the kitchen you will gain the basic culinary skills. Your ability to research will also develop to help you gain a thorough understanding of the hospitality sector, helping you to make informed decisions on your future career plans.

What else will I do? A unique feature of these courses is the way they directly relate to the hospitality business. Excellent opportunities exist for assessment in our popular college restaurants and the workplace. You will also have the opportunity to achieve a variety of related subsidiary awards including key skills.

How will I be assessed? There will be a combination of practical assessments and assignments across the year some of which will be carried out in real working situations.

What will I achieve? City and Guilds VRQ L1 Diploma in Professional Cookery. CIEH L2 Award in Food Safety. HSE Emergency First Aid Certificate. A range of key skills at level 1 and 2.

What can I do afterwards? The VRQ provides an excellent basis for those wishing to progress into a career in the hospitality industry locally, nationally or internationally. Alternatively, after completing the VRQ L1 Diploma you may wish to progress to the L2 VRQ Diploma in Professional Cookery and afterwards onto the L3 NVQ in Hospitality Supervision or the L3 NVQ in Food Production.

Materials required: You will need to buy two sets of chefs whites, restaurant uniform, knife set and two text books.