Catering

Our Catering courses range from introductory cookery skills through to professional chef qualifications designed to prepare you for work in the hospitality industry.

You will learn core culinary techniques such as knife skills, food preparation, cooking methods and presentation, while also developing an understanding of kitchen operations, food safety and menu planning. Courses are structured to help you build confidence step by step, whether you are exploring a new interest or working towards a career as a professional chef. In a fast-paced kitchen environment, you'll have every opportunity to find your brilliance and develop your own culinary identity.

Yes. Practical training takes place in industry style kitchens that reflect the layout, pace and expectations of real hospitality environments.

Working in these spaces helps you understand how professional kitchens operate, from food preparation and service coordination to hygiene standards and teamwork. You'll experience the rhythm of a working kitchen, learning how to stay organised, communicate clearly and maintain high standards under pressure.

You don't need previous experience to begin on an introductory Catering course. These programmes are designed to teach you fundamental techniques in a supportive environment, helping you develop practical ability and confidence from the ground up.

If you are applying for a higher-level qualification, prior study or kitchen experience may be required. Entry requirements are clearly outlined on each course page so you can choose the level that best suits your current skills and ambitions.

Many Catering courses include opportunities to gain real service experience, whether through internal restaurant service, events or external placements.

These experiences allow you to apply your skills in live environments, interact with customers and understand professional standards in action. Work experience helps you build resilience, time management and customer service skills, all of which are essential in the hospitality industry.

Catering qualifications can lead to a wide range of careers within hospitality. Progression routes include roles such as commis chef, chef de partie, pastry chef, kitchen supervisor, hospitality manager or catering entrepreneur.

The hospitality sector is diverse and fast moving, offering opportunities in restaurants, hotels, event catering, cruise ships and international settings. Alongside culinary expertise, you'll develop teamwork, communication and organisational skills that are highly valued by employers.

Professional catering uniform is usually required for kitchen sessions to ensure high standards of hygiene and safety.

Wearing industry appropriate clothing, such as chef whites and protective footwear, helps reinforce professional expectations and prepares you for the realities of working in a commercial kitchen. Full details of required uniform and equipment are provided before enrolment so you can begin your course fully prepared.

Once you have chosen the right course, simply visit the relevant course page and follow the clear application or enquiry instructions provided.

Each listing outlines entry requirements, next steps and key dates so you can move forward with confidence. After submitting your application, you will receive confirmation and further guidance about what to expect next.

Our process is designed to be straightforward and supportive, ensuring you feel informed at every stage as you take your first step towards finding your brilliance at City of Portsmouth College.

Yes. Attending an Open Event is one of the best ways to explore our facilities, meet tutors and speak directly with current students.

Open Events give you a genuine feel for College life, allowing you to see workshops, studios and classrooms in action. You can ask questions about course content, enrichment opportunities and progression routes, helping you make a confident and well-informed decision about your future.

Visiting in person often brings your ambitions into sharper focus and helps you picture yourself thriving in your chosen subject area.