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Apprenticeship in Culinary Arts
The Commis Chef Apprenticeship is a formal structured two year education and training programme, incorporating periods of off the job training and skills development in College and work based knowledge and skills development on the job skills in an approved industry kitchen.

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 course last for 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 July and August. The remaining days per week are spent with a Solas approved supplier, working whilst gaining on the job skills. Assessment are completed in both college and the workplace.
About This Course
Course Content
Year 1, Semester 1
Health & Safety
Culinary Skills & Standards
Larder
Classical Cuisine
Basic Pastry Techniques
Applied Nutrition for Menu Planning
Year 1 Semester 2
Computer Essentials
Scientific Principles & Culinary Technologies
Food and Beverage Service
International Cookery
Product Development and Innovation
Year 2 Semester 1
Food Safety
Volume Food Production
Global Cuisine
Interpersonal Skills
History and Development of Gastronomy
Buffet Skills
Year 2 Semester 2
Applied Nutrition for Menu Design
Creative Pastry Techniques
Business Practices for Hospitality
Culinary Entrepreneurship
Culinary Event

Entry Requirements
Minimum aged at which employment of an apprentice may commence is 16 years.
1) A level 4 Major Award on the QQI National Framework of Qualification
Or
2) A level 3 Certificate on the European Qualifications Framework with passes in a minimum of 5 subjects
Or
3) Have a minimum of three years trade related experience, assessment of trade related experience is carried out by the Programme Manager in the ETB.
In addition to the above a pass in maths at Level 3 on the National Framework of Qualifications or Level 2 on the European Framework of qualification is also required.
Non-native English speakers require proof of having a B2 level of proficiency in English language.
Further Study
Apprentices who successfully complete the Commis Chef Apprenticeship will be eligible to progress to the Chef de Partie Apprenticeship at QQI Level 7 or progress to another course of culinary study.
Career Opportunities
Certification
On successful completion of the Commis Chef Apprenticeship the newly qualified Commis Chef will receive a QQI Level 6 Major Award- Advanced Certificate in Culinary Arts.
Course Fees
No course fee apply 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.