Need Help Applying for a course?
Student Handbook
Funding Support for Students
Ready to take your passion for food to the next level? The Level 3 Professional Cookery Diploma is your ticket to standing out in the culinary world. This course is all about levelling up your skills, think mastering bold new dishes, experimenting with the latest kitchen gadgets, and pushing your creativity to the max. You’ll go beyond the basics, learning advanced techniques and building the confidence to make your mark as a modern chef. This course is a two-year apprenticeship programme offered as progression from the Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery.
Stay sharp with food safety and hygiene, run a kitchen that’s clean and secure, and master the essentials for confident cooking. Get hands-on with prepping and cooking fish, meat, and poultry, bringing out bold flavours and perfect textures. Elevate your vegetables, sauces, and soups to five-star status, then finish strong with hot and cold desserts that impress every time.
Applicants should hold a Level 2 Professional Cookery qualification or be able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge and practical experience linked to the Level 2 framework. Applicants should be employed in a relevant job role in the industry.
This qualification is assessed continually through observation of performance in a realistic working environment, where you will agree a plan with your tutors for the assessment of your skills. Knowledge and understanding are assessed through a blend of written, oral and online questioning.
Following successful completion of the Level 3 Diploma, learners can progress towards Higher Education opportunities and SWC can offer a Foundation Degree Culinary Arts. Career pathways are wide open, from senior roles like Chef de Partie, Sous, and Head Chef across hotels, restaurants, gastro pubs, research and food development roles. This course could lead to either local or international job opportunities.
P3397OF10B
Session Code
2 Year(s)
Duration
Apprenticeships
Mode of Study
6.75
Hours per Week
34
Number of Weeks
Interview Required
26/27
Academic Year
01/09/2026
Start Date
Subject to Timetable
Day/s
Michael.Donaghey@swc.ac.uk
Coordinator(s)
Total Annual Fee N/A
Total Concessionary Fee N/A
Fees Payable Each Year
**Am I eligible for concessionary fees?
P3397DF10B
Dermot.Regan@swc.ac.uk
P3397EF10B
Claire.Currid@swc.ac.uk
Level 2 Catering & Professional Cookery Apprenticeship
City & Guilds Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery
City & Guilds Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery Fast Track