Skills Bootcamp

Introduction to catering


Interested in a career in catering? This course, delivered by Swatpro, aims to help you achieve an exciting role in the sector. Funded by Devon County Council and free to undertake, with just 17 places available, you may want apply early!


Introduction to Catering Skills Bootcamp banner

Overview of the role - IconOverview of the role

The catering industry is undergoing a transformation, with established restaurants, pop-ups, events catering, gastro-pubs all vying for a slice of the action. Whether you might be considering a job in a patisseries making delicate cakes, becoming a baker and working with sour doughs and rye breads, or aiming high and setting yourself the target of working in a Michelin starred restaurant, we all have to start somewhere!

The South West has a rich heritage in everything from quick snacks to fine dining, from the humble Cornish pasty and Devon Cream Tea, to haute cuisine. We have vineyards, cheese makers, meat producers and vegetable growers right on our doorstep... this course will set you on your path into an exciting career in catering.

Chef preparing food in a kitchen

Details of the Standard - IconDetails of the Skills Bootcamp

The Skills Bootcamps are short courses designed to be "employer led", or "learner led". This one is "employer led", which means that it has the aim of supporting employers to upskill their staff.

The catering industry is fast-paced, constantly evolving and diverse. There's no doubt that it's hard work, but work hard and the results, and rewards, for your career can be amazing!

This course will help you to understand trends in food, accreditation schemes, commercial catering equipment, food safety, cooking methods and terminology as well as employability skills such as presentation skills, communication skills, letter writing and analysing job adverts.

Over the shoulder image of a chef working in a kitchen.

Duration - IconDuration

This course is based on 12 sessions, delivered as 2 days a week (Tuesday and Wednesday), over six weeks. The next course is being planned for January 2025. Each day starts at 09:30 and finishes at 15:30 (09:30-12:30, 13:30-15:30). You will need to attend all sessions relating to your course.

The next course starts January 2025, at our Marsh Barton site. You can register your interest HERE or scan the QR code below...

Register your interest QR Code

Entry Requirements - IconEntry Requirements

There are no specific entry requirements regarding previous qualifications. However, these courses are funded by Devon County Council and so there are limitations based on your postcode, but we will check this when you apply. These courses are only open to those over the age of 19 and you must live in Devon.

English and maths - IconEnglish and maths

You do not need to have achieved your maths and English qualifications to take part.

Delivery - IconCurriculum, delivery and assessment

The course is designed to help those that are interested in an exciting career in catering, and aims to help those people in finding a job in the sector. As a reult, we'll be focussing on catering and employability; providing knowledge about the industry and building employability skills so that you can attend an interview with confidence.

There are no formal assessments or exams, but there will be little tests and quizes along the way, designed to support your learning.

Progression - IconProgression

At the end of this course, there is an expectation that you will undertake an interview with an employer; allowing you to move into paid work. Having completed this course, you would also be well placed to take on an apprenticeship in hospitality and catering.

Interested in applying? REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

Devon County Council logo

Funded by UK Government logoSkills For Life logo