Introduction to Culinary Arts Programme

This programme is designed as a basic foundation to the Culinary / Chef Industry and is perfect for school leavers, or individuals who have been working in the industry without any formal qualifications and who would like to improve their career prospects. This programme equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to assist in preparing and serving food, and to effectively clean food preparation and service areas.

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Programme Details

Principles of Food Safety

Health and Safety

Kitchen Equipment and Knife Skills

Workplace Standards

Professional Development

Environmental Awareness

Nutrition, Special Diets and Allergen Awareness

Cold Food Preparation and Presentation

Cooking Methods

BONUS WORKSHOP: Food Photography

Entry Requirements

Minimum highest qualification: Grade 9 pass

Math Literacy (Pass) NQF 1

English Literacy (Pass) NQF 1

Career Path

An entry-level chef with an international qualification in Introduction to Culinary Arts has a strong foundation for a variety of exciting career paths in the food industry. Opportunities include working as a commis chef, line cook, or prep chef in restaurants, hotels, or catering companies, gaining hands-on experience in professional kitchens. With skills in food safety, nutrition, and cold food preparation, they can specialise in areas like garde manger (cold kitchen), banquet catering, or dietary-focused cooking.

The food photography workshop also opens doors to roles in food styling, content creation, and social media marketing for culinary brands. As they gain experience, they can progress to chef de partie roles, pursue further culinary education, or explore opportunities in food retail, hospitality management, or private catering.

Further Education

On completion of this qualification, students may wish to continue their development by undertaking one of the following Highfield qualifications at CTIA:

Highfield Level 3 Diploma for Professional Chefs (RQF)
Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Patisserie, Confectionery & Bakery (RQF)

ADDITIONAL ADD-ON

Highfield Level 3 Award in Supervising Food Safety at Sea (Maritime)

The decision to study culinary through CTIA is the best choice of higher learning that I have made thus far. The standard of the education that I’ve obtained is exceptional.

CHRIS JOUBERT

☆☆☆☆☆

CTIA is the best place to advance your culinary knowledge. This is where cooking is made perfect, with the best lecturers to make you progress in your career.