Course Overview
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for preparing and cooking food items from fresh, and finishing refined dishes. Chefs will follow directions from a senior chef to ensure that dishes are produced to order and time. They are responsible for implementing hygiene, health and safety, and food safety legislation and local procedures, including allergen handling. They are responsible for stock control, following business practice for stock rotation and use, and for maintaining food safety throughout receipt, storage, production, holding, and further storage and reuse of cooked items. They are responsible for the safe and efficient handling and use of a range of specialist kitchen knives, manual tools and electric equipment.
Alternatively, they may follow centrally developed standardised recipes and menus, producing food using majority pre-prepared ingredients often in high volumes. In some key environments, a production chef cooks for people with special dietary requirements such as children in schools, elderly people in care homes, or people who are unwell or recovering from illness in hospitals.
Topics may include:
- Working in a team to prepare food items from fresh in line with business standards and recipe specifications
- Health and safety and food safety legislation
- Adjust recipes to accommodate plant-based, gluten-free, and individual dietary needs, including allergens
- Ensuring food stock is stored correctly and used in rotation
- Using equipment and technology safely and effectively, including preventative maintenance
- Following sustainability best practice in relation to the use of resources, including energy, water, and reduction and disposal of waste.
Assessment Methods
Assessment is through practical observations with questions, and professional discussions supported by your portfolio.
Progression Options
You could progress to Level 3 Senior Production Chef or Chef de Partie programmes.
Entry Requirements
You need GCSEs in English and maths at a grade 3 or above.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
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Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
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