Foundational Culinary Skills

The Certificate in Foundational Culinary Skills is a practical, industry-focused Level 6 programme designed to develop the essential skills required for a career in professional kitchens and the hospitality sector.

Delivered over two semesters, this 20-credit programme provides hands-on training in culinary techniques, pastry production, food safety, and live kitchen service. Learners gain experience in preparing and cooking a wide range of food products while developing the professional standards, teamwork, and kitchen practices expected by employers.

Whether you are starting your culinary career, changing profession, or currently working in hospitality and seeking formal qualifications, this programme provides a flexible pathway into one of Ireland's most dynamic industries.

Unique Features

• Industry-focused programme designed in consultation with hospitality employers.
• Extensive hands-on practical training in professional kitchen facilities.
• Experience working in realistic live-service kitchen environments.
• Strong emphasis on food safety, HACCP, and professional kitchen standards.
• Small class sizes to maximise practical learning and individual support.
• Delivered by experienced culinary professionals and educators.
• Pathway to further culinary studies within SETU.
• Designed as a flexible micro-credential supporting lifelong learning and career development.

Delivery

This programme is delivered over two semesters using a practical, blended learning approach, every Tuesday.

Students participate in:

• Practical kitchen workshops
• Demonstrations and guided learning
• Live-service culinary experiences
• Classroom-based food safety and culinary science sessions
• Individual and team-based learning activities

The majority of learning takes place in SETU's purpose-built culinary training kitchens and hospitality facilities, providing an authentic professional environment.