Quick facts
| Qualification type | Level 1 Diploma |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Study times | You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:00 to 4:15. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. Some evening work will be required. |
| Entry requirements | No formal qualifications are needed, but you'll need to come to an interview and provide a positive school report, as well as take a short test in basic skills. A GCSE in Food Technology is an advantage. A successful induction period will be needed to identify which Level 1 pathway is appropriate for you. |
| Campus | Edmunds Restaurant, Main West Suffolk College Campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | Yes |
Is it for me?
Whether you're into sauteing, stirring, serving, smiling, or shaking cocktails, this course will provide you with the fundamental foundation training for employment or further education within the hospitality industry.
The aim of the course is to provide you with the basic practical skills, knowledge and confidence in food preparation, cooking, and food and beverage service - developing your relevant core skills.
You'll gain practical experience training in our purpose-built kitchens and upmarket restaurant, Edmund's, where you'll learn how to prepare and cook a variety of fresh foods, provide outstanding customer service and friendly reception duties, alongside food and beverage service techniques.
The course offers a broad range of vocational and functional skills training, preparing you for employment or for the next level of your education.
What you'll learn
- Food Safety
- Kitchen Skills
- Pastry and Savoury Products for the Restaurant
- Restaurant and Bar Service
- Customer Service
- Reception Skills
- Functional Skills (Mathematics, English and ICT)
While you're here you'll also enjoy a wide range of enrichment activities including team building, visits to hospitality establishments, demonstrations and talks from industrial experts and the opportunity to enter competitions.
Any student aged 16 to 19 who does not hold a GCSE at grade 9 to 4 or equivalent qualifications in Maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.
Work experience placements
All students will complete work related experience within the Campus catering facilities.
Further study
- Professional Cookery VRQ 1
- Professional Cookery VRQ 2
- Hospitality Operations NVQ 2
- Hospitality Supervision and Event Management Diploma Level 3
- Patisserie and Confectionary Diploma Level 3
- Professional Chefs Advanced Diploma Level 3
Example careers
- Baker
- Butcher
- Chef
- Catering Manager
- Bar Manager
- Restaurant Manager
- Events Manager
- Cake Decorator
- Cellar Technician
- Food Scientist
- Hotel Manager
- Concierge
- Microbrewer
- Street Food Trader
- Wedding Planner
- Private Chef
Days & times
Starting September 2025