This course will give you the skills you need for a career in professional cookery.
This includes organisational skills, food preparation and cookery, preparing pastry and sweets, working safely and food hygiene. You will also work in our Terrace Restaurant, this will include you working in the evening.
Start date – August 2026
End date – June 2027
SCQF Level - 5
Mode - Full-time
Read about Taylor Clark's West Lothian College experience here
The course covers:
You will learn in practical and theoretical classes in our fully equipped facilities. You will develop essential skills for working in fast-paced restaurants and kitchens through work experience in the Terrace Restaurant either on a Tuesday or Thursday until 9pm.
This course introduces you to Professional Cookery and Hospitality Practices. Experienced lecturers with a range of industry experience in fine dining, contract catering, branded restaurants and 4 and 5 star hotels, will support and guide you throughout this course.
I get to learn lots of new things about food while working in the kitchen. I am learning so much and hope to use this experience in my career.
Onpanweena Petchung, Professional Cookery Level 5
I have picked up a lot to take into the future and the tutors have been really helpful.
John Cuddigh, Professional Cookery Level 5
At least two National 4 awards (Standard Grade general level or Intermediate 1 or 2) in English, mathematics, home economics, food technology and/or science
We welcome applications from mature students, particularly those who lack formal qualifications but have experience in the industry.
Former students have found employment with the Sheraton Hotel, Dakota Hotel, Balmoral, Virgin Hotels, Gleneagles and Sodexo
If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course.
Education: progression to higher professional cookery level 6 or specialist areas such as patisserie.
Employment: in the hospitality and catering industry in the UK and abroad add different levels within the industry.
We offer a range of full-time courses from Level 4 up to Level 6 Professional Cookery and you would have the opportunity to progress through these levels which are designed to prepare you for employment within this industry.
Students benefit from our strong links with local employers and related organisations, by hearing from industry speakers and to gain work experience from varied work placement opportunities including Royal Ascot.
Student have entered industry recognised competitions including Scothot, Hotel, Restaurant and Catering Show, Master Chefs of Great Britian and Unox which is in Italy.
If we invite you for interview, plan to be in college for up to three hours. The interview involves:
Interview Questions
There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds. Click here to find out more.
Take that next step in your career and apply for this course today. If the course is not yet open for applications, feel free to ask any questions by clicking make an enquiry.