Career Studies

The Occupational Certificate: Chef (SAQA ID 101697, NQF Level 5) is a nationally recognized qualification designed to prepare learners for professional careers in the hospitality and catering industry. The programme develops both the technical and managerial skills needed to work as a chef, combining structured theory, practical kitchen training, and extensive workplace experience. Learners are introduced to fundamental principles such as food safety, nutrition, gastronomy, menu planning, and cost control, while also gaining hands-on skills in a variety of cooking methods and food preparation techniques. The course is structured into three components: knowledge modules (covering culinary theory, safety, and global cuisines), practical skills modules (focused on preparation, cooking, finishing, and kitchen management), and work experience modules (providing real-world application in professional kitchens). By integrating these elements, the qualification ensures that graduates are fully equipped to plan, organize, and deliver high-quality culinary services in line with industry standards.

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an/a Events Manager (Conference and Events Organiser). 

This qualification, which is aligned to the Global Hospitality Certification for the international hospitality industry, has been developed to equip learners with the necessary knowledge, skill and attitude to enter the hospitality industry with a distinctive set of management skills for the Food and Beverage industry.   

This qualification will bring together elements of food and drinks preparation, service, aspects of the international nature of different countries or cultures, as well as basic supervision and management applicable to all sectors from small restaurants, guest houses, game lodges and nature reserves, to large-scale hotels.

As part of our innovative approach, digital badges are included as a key feature of the new qualifications. In addition to their City & Guilds and other certificates, learners who complete their qualification will receive their own digital badge which they can share online via social media in order to showcase their qualification achievement and the skills they can offer.

Included in this qualification as different subjects, are personal development, leadership and management.

Possible Careers:

• Food & Beverage Manager
• Restaurant Manager
• Assistant Restaurant Manager
• Guest House Manager
• Food & Beverage Supervisor
• Duty Manager

Start & End dates: 1 March 2024- 3 March 2025

Start & End date: 25 February 2025- 26 January 2026

Start & End date: 21 July 2025 - 18 January 2027

Start & End dates: