Pictured is our Hospitality tutor, Jen! For small and medium-sized employers, recruiting new talent or developing existing employees can be challenging—particularly when budgets and operational pressures are tight.

The Level 2 Production Chef Apprenticeship offers a practical solution. Eligible apprenticeship training for employees aged 16–24 in England can now be fully funded, making this an excellent time for SMEs to recruit someone new or upskill a current member of staff.

What is a Production Chef?

Production chefs work as part of a team in busy, time-sensitive kitchen environments. The apprenticeship is well suited to employees working in:

• Restaurants, cafés and pub kitchens
• Schools, colleges and workplace canteens
• Hospitals and care homes
• Hotels and contract catering
• Public, private and voluntary-sector organisations

What does the Level 2 Production Chef Apprenticeship include?

The programme helps employees build the knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours needed to become confident and effective members of a kitchen team.

Areas covered include:

• Preparing, cooking and presenting food safely
• Following standardised recipes and portion controls
• Maintaining excellent food, personal and kitchen hygiene
• Food safety, health and safety, and relevant legislation
• Nutrition and meeting dietary, religious and allergen requirements
• Using kitchen equipment correctly and safely
• Managing production schedules and working efficiently
• Reducing waste and supporting sustainability
• Working effectively with colleagues and communicating professionally
• Understanding costs, quality standards and the commercial needs of the organisation
• Taking responsibility for personal development and performance

How long does it take?

The apprenticeship normally includes around 12 months of training, followed by an end-point assessment period of approximately three months.

Training that works around your business

We understand that releasing kitchen employees for weekly college attendance is not always practical. That is why we simplify the process and bring the training to your workplace.

There is no traditional day-release requirement. Our team works with you and the apprentice on site, arranging support around the needs of your organisation.

Whether you want to recruit an enthusiastic young person, strengthen your existing team or help a valued employee gain a nationally recognised apprenticeship, the Level 2 Production Chef could be an excellent investment.

Contact us for a friendly, no-obligation chat. We will explain the funding, confirm eligibility and help you decide whether the programme is right for your organisation and your employees. info@swatpro.org.uk