
Hospitality and Catering courses
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Professional Chef, VRQ Diploma
Although there are around 250,000 in the UK, reports show that there is a shortage of skilled chefs.
What will I do on this course?
This study programme will take your cookery knowledge and technical skills to the next stage after completing the Level 1 course.
By studying at The Grove Restaurant, you’ll gain solid experience of working in the hospitality and catering industry.
You will learn about:
- The catering and hospitality industry
- Food and safety hygiene in the kitchen
- Planning and preparing for service
- Menu planning and costing
- Meat and offal, poultry, fish and shellfish
- Vegetables and vegetable dishes
- Stocks and soups
- Pastry and bakery products
- Desserts
- Farinaceous and egg dishes
- Biscuits, cakes and sponges.
You’ll complete a work placement or extended industry placement which we will help organise. Plus, as a Grove Restaurant learner, you’ll also get to practice your skills at events such as Chef of the Year and the WorldSkills competition.
As part of this programme, you’ll also develop your maths and English skills, attend tutorials and Individual Development (ID) or Future Academy.
How will I be assessed?
You’ll sit two assessment papers throughout the year to test your theory and practical knowledge, and an end-of-year assessment including elements from the topics you’ve covered.
What could I do after this course?
You’ll be equipped with the skills you need to work as a chef in the catering industry and in a wide range of other careers in the hospitality sector. You could also increase your knowledge by progressing to a Level 3 course in professional cookery, professional patisserie and confectionery or hospitality, events, and business enterprise at Weston College.
Awarding body
VTCT
Additional costs
You’ll need a kit and uniform for your work experience or placement and home practice, which is likely to cost between £50 and £100. This cost and the bursaries that might be available can be discussed at your interview.
Entry Requirements
You’ll need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9-2 (including at least two at grade 4 or above) or a qualifying Level 1 qualification.
Occupations related to Professional Chef, VRQ Diploma
Show AllWhat our students say
Beth, Professional Cookery NVQ Level 3
“I love to work in the kitchen and am very pleased with how much practical experience I gained at Weston College, which will help me work my way up in the catering industry.”
Beth has found a job that puts the skills she learnt on her professional cookery course at the College to great use. She is a commis chef at Harvey Nichols and adores her job. Beth aspires to work her way up in the catering industry.
Beth was very impressed with the facilities in the College’s kitchens and feels studying at Weston College was a great first step to achieving her goal of becoming a professional chef.
Former school: Wells Blue School

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