Michael Caines Academy – Professional Cookery (and Food Service)

Frequently Asked Questions

What will my average week look like? Will I have to work with customers and clients? Will I work late?

The Level 1 VRQ Professional Cookery and Food Service course offers a varied week, combining practical kitchen sessions with classroom-based learning. You will develop the skills required in a professional kitchen through hands-on practical work, assessments, and learning the theory that underpins those skills.

These skills are further developed through working in our @34 restaurant, where you will gain real industry experience preparing and serving lunches and dinners for members of the public. This provides valuable opportunities to work as part of a professional team and understand the expectations of the hospitality industry.

The course generally runs over five days per week, and finish times can vary depending on your timetable and restaurant commitments. As hospitality is an industry that often operates beyond normal working hours, some evening sessions will be required throughout the year.

What's different about this course, than my time at school?

One of the biggest differences is the amount of practical learning. Rather than spending most of your time in a classroom, you will learn by doing, developing professional cookery and food service skills in realistic working environments.

You will be treated more like a young professional, taking responsibility for your own learning, attendance, timekeeping, and organisation. The course is designed to prepare you for employment in the hospitality industry, so there is a greater focus on workplace expectations and professional standards.

A key difference is the opportunity to gain real industry experience through working in our @34 restaurant, where you will prepare and serve food to paying customers. This gives you valuable experience of working as part of a professional team, dealing with service pressures, and producing food to industry standards.

The college environment is also different from school. You will have more independence, work with learners who share similar interests, and be taught by staff with extensive industry experience. The course combines practical sessions, theory lessons, work experience, and customer-facing activities to help you develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed for a career in hospitality.

What will I have to wear?

As a student on the Level 1 VRQ Professional Cookery and Food Service course, you will be required to wear a full professional catering uniform for practical sessions and restaurant service.

This includes:

• Chef’s jacket
• Chef’s trousers
• Apron
• Safety footwear
• Appropriate chef’s hat or headwear

You will also be expected to maintain high standards of personal presentation and hygiene, including keeping your uniform clean and ensuring long hair is tied back when working in the kitchen.

The uniform, knives, and equipment used throughout the course are purchased at the start of the programme and are designed to meet industry standards, helping you prepare for work in a professional kitchen environment. These costs are approximately £350 and the equipment will be used throughout your studies and beyond into industry

What will I do in tutorial and what enrichment is on offer

Throughout the year you will have regular tutorials where we will look at how you are getting on with your course, attendance and targets. Tutorials are a chance to discuss any support you may need, explore future career options and help you develop the skills needed for college, work and everyday life. 

There are also plenty of opportunities to get involved in enrichment activities. These may include trips and visits, guest chef demonstrations, competitions, charity events and supporting college functions. You may also have opportunities to work alongside industry professionals and take part in activities that help build your confidence, teamwork and employability skills. 

These experiences are designed to make your time at college enjoyable while helping you develop the wider skills and industry knowledge needed for a successful career in hospitality.