Commis Chef Apprenticeship

QQI Level 6

Course Code

Major Award Code

About This Course

Apprentices will gain the skills and knowledge to prepare, cook and present a wide variety of dishes and commodities to a professional standard. The apprentice will gain an internationally recognised qualification, continue to earn whilst they learn with an employer of their choice, enrich their work immediately as they acquire new skills and enhance their employment prospects and career opportunities.

The duration of the course is two full years. It begins with a three-week five day structured induction in college and then continues with 2 days in college per week from September to June and one day per week in July and August. The remaining days per week are spent with a SOLAS-approved employer, working whilst gaining on-the-job skills. Assessments are completed in both college and the workplace.

Modules

Course Content

Year 1 Semester 1

Health & Safety
Classical Culinary Skills
Basic Pastry Techniques
Applied Nutrition for Menu Planning

Year 1 Semester 2

Computer Essentials
Scientific Principles & Culinary Technologies
Food and Beverage Service
World Cuisine

Year 2 Semester 1

Food Safety
Volume Food Production
Interpersonal Skills
History and Development of Gastronomy
Culinary Product Development
Sustainability Education for Culinary Practices

Year 2 Semester 2

Applied Nutrition for Menu Design
Creative Pastry Techniques
Business Practice for Hospitality
Culinary Entrepreneurship
Culinary Event

Progression

Graduates may gain advanced entry into Year 3 of the L7 Culinary Arts Degree at Dundalk Institute of Technology.

Graduates may also progress to the Chef de Partie Apprenticeship at QQI Level 7 or progress to another course of culinary study.

Entry Requirements

The minimum age at which employment of an apprentice may commence is 16 years.

1) A level 4 Major Award on the QQI National Framework of Qualifications

2) A level 3 Certificate on the European Qualifications Framework with passes in a minimum of 5 subjects

3) Have a minimum of three years of trade-related experience

Non-native English speakers require proof of having a B2 level of proficiency in the English language.

Course Fees

No course fee applies to this programme; the Solas-approved employer pays the apprentice to attend college two days per week. Uniforms and books are also free to the apprentice.