Foundation Programme in Cookery, 28 weeks

Introduction

Gain the specialist skills you need to have an exciting career in culinary arts or hospitality and graduate with industry recognised, respected New Zealand and international qualifications. This intensive programme starts with all students studying the essentials of the culinary arts and hospitality industries before choosing your specialist pathway in either cookery or hospitality service. You will spend the first 15 weeks learning about cookery based on the principles of the French masters (understanding ingredients and cookery techniques) as well as learning about professional food and wine service. You will gain your first understanding and appreciation of wine and start to develop your barista skills. Once you have completed this essential introduction to the industry you will continue in your chosen specialisation of cookery or hospitality.

Cookery Specialisation

For the remainder of the programme you will be immersed in the world of cookery. You will cook, eat and think food. You will learn essential baking skills that form the basis of café kitchen fare, muffins, tarts, pies and quiche, baked and chilled slices as well as how to make soups, salads and specialist sauces such as mayonnaise, vinaigrette and jus. Workshops on meat cookery, artisan breads and desserts will also be covered.

Hospitality Specialisation

For the hospitality option you will experience what it takes to become one of the finest hospitality service professionals - this programme will take you to observe, experience and work in some of Aucklands premier restaurants where excellence of service is paramount. The course includes studying for your intermediate international wine qualifications so that you have an in-depth knowledge of wines of the world and your fine dining service modules will teach you the essentials of fine food and wine service including silver and gueridon service.

Entry Requirements

• Aged 17 or over (international students must be aged 18 or over)
• Some industry experience an advantage
• Attend an interview
• Upper intermediate level of English
• Valid student visa for international students

Scholarships

Available for New Zealand school leavers - please click here for further information and application form.

Pathways to further study

Graduates can return to NZSFW to study Advanced Cookery, the Advanced WSET® Sommelier programme or enrol in the Restaurant & Cafe Management programme if they wish to eventually own their own hospitality business.

Career Opportunities

Graduates will be able to work in all fields of their chosen specialisation including hotels, resorts, luxury lodges, cruise ships, international yachts, fine dining (5 star) restaurants, cafés and caterers.

Graduation placement service

All graduates have access to the NZSFW Graduate Placement Service when it is time to seek employment. This service is also available for industry placements during your studies.

What Qualifications will I Gain?

• NZSFW Foundation Certificate in Cookery or Hospitality
• NZSFW Certificate in Cookery and Hospitality, Introduction
• NZSFW Certificate in Wine
• Food Safety unit standards
• Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ)

Cookery stream only

• NZSFW Certificate in Cookery, Intermediate

Hospitality stream only

• NZSFW Certificate in Professional Wine Knowledge, Intermediate
• WSET® Certificate in Wine, Intermediate

New Zealand residents are eligible for student loans and allowances. Fees do not include knives, chef's uniforms or personal equipment. This is estimated to be NZ$1,000.