If you’ve always dreamed of becoming a professional chef, the College of Cape Town is offering the perfect opportunity to turn your passion into a rewarding career. Applications are now open for the Occupational Certificate: Chef programme, a full-time, three-year course designed to prepare students for the fast-paced and exciting world of culinary arts. Applications will be accepted from 1 April to 30 April 2025 – don’t miss your chance to apply!
College of Cape Town Offers 3-Year Chef Training Programme – Apply Now
What Is the Occupational Certificate: Chef?
This nationally recognised qualification (NQF Level 5, OFO Code: 101697) is tailored to equip students with essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for a successful career in the hospitality and culinary industry. With a minimum of 558 credits, the programme is comprehensive and career-focused, combining classroom-based instruction with hands-on training in real-world kitchen environments.
The course prepares learners for diverse culinary roles in hotels, restaurants, catering companies, and more, while also developing their confidence and competence in food preparation, hygiene, and customer service.
What Does a Chef Do?
A professional chef goes beyond cooking meals—they design menus, lead kitchen teams, manage inventory, and ensure that food is prepared to the highest standards of taste and presentation. This programme trains students in all these areas by offering a strong foundation in hospitality, culinary techniques, food safety, and workplace readiness.
Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue entrepreneurial ventures in the food industry.
Admission Requirements
To qualify for this course, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A National Senior Certificate (Matric / Grade 12) or an equivalent qualification.
- A genuine passion for food, strong work ethic, and a keen eye for detail.
- The ability to communicate effectively in English.
- Previous experience in the hospitality or culinary industry is beneficial but not mandatory.
Where and How the Training Takes Place
The chef training programme is offered full-time over three years, with classes and practical training conducted at the College of Cape Town’s City Campus. Students will also take part in in-service training, which means gaining real-life work experience at an industry partner’s kitchen.
This mix of academic, practical, and workplace training ensures that students graduate job-ready, with a balanced understanding of both the creative and operational sides of the kitchen.
Final Assessment and Certification
At the end of the three years, students will be eligible to take the QCTO Trade Test, a nationally accredited assessment for chefs in South Africa. In preparation for this final evaluation, students will compile a Portfolio of Evidence and complete an Industry Logbook, which must be externally verified and approved by the QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations).
Once these components are successfully completed, students will earn the Occupational Certificate: Chef, opening doors to employment both locally and internationally.
Why Choose the College of Cape Town?
The College of Cape Town is a respected institution under the Department of Higher Education and Training. With its modern facilities, industry-relevant training, and supportive academic staff, the college provides a well-rounded education that blends innovation with practical skills development.
The institution is committed to inspiring minds and helping students build bright futures in their chosen fields.
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How to Apply
All applications for the Chef training programme must be completed online via the College of Cape Town’s official website:
www.cct.edu.za
Applications are only open from 1 April to 30 April 2025, so it’s essential to apply within this period.
For more information, contact:
- Email: info@cct.edu.za
- Phone: 086 010 3682 or 021 404 6700
The College of Cape Town’s Occupational Certificate: Chef programme offers aspiring culinary professionals a structured, in-depth pathway to a successful career in the hospitality industry. With its blend of theoretical learning, hands-on practical training, and workplace experience, this three-year qualification is ideal for anyone serious about becoming a professional chef. Whether you dream of working in top restaurants, running your own kitchen, or creating new culinary experiences, this programme will give you the tools and confidence to succeed.
