SVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery (SCQF Level 5)

On successful completion, learners will achieve:
SVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery at SCQF Level 5

The qualification is delivered through work-based learning, allowing learners to achieve the award alongside employment in a professional kitchen. Assessment is integrated into normal working practice and supported by a qualified assessor.
The typical duration of the course is 9-15 months, depending on the learner's role, experience, and pace of evidence collection.

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There are no formal academic entry requirements for this course. Learners should be working in a commercial or professional kitchen environment where they can demonstrate food preparation, cooking, and safe working practices.
This course is suitable for:

• Trainee chefs.
• Kitchen assistants progressing into cookery roles.
• Employees working in restaurants, cafes, hotels, or catering environments.
• Learners undertaking a Professional Cookery Modern Apprenticeship.

Completion of this qualification supports progression into:

• Senior kitchen roles.
• Advanced Professional Cookery or Hospitality qualifications.
• SVQs in Hospitality Supervision or Management.
• Further training in specialist areas such as pastry, plant-based cookery, or food production.

The qualification also supports career development through increased responsibility, confidence, and employability within the hospitality sector.

All applications will be carefully reviewed by the delivery team to confirm that eligibility criteria and entry requirements are met. Admission to the course is based on these checks and will be at the discretion of the centre, supported by the employer.
Successful applicants will be formally enrolled and provided with a confirmed start date to begin their award.

Hospitality and professional cookery skills are in strong demand across the Scottish Borders, particularly within restaurants, hotels, cafes, contract catering, tourism venues, and public sector catering.
This qualification supports roles such as:

• Kitchen Assistant or Cook
• Catering Assistant
• Hospitality and Food Production Operative

Employers value this qualification as evidence of practical competence, food safety awareness, and readiness to work in professional kitchen environments.

£900.00

The SVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery at SCQF Level 5 is a practical, work-based qualification designed for individuals working in professional kitchen environments. It provides learners with the essential skills, knowledge, and confidence required to prepare, cook, and present a wide range of dishes to industry standards.
This course supports learners to develop safe working practices, strong teamwork skills, and professional behaviours expected within commercial kitchens. It is ideal for those starting their career in hospitality or looking to gain formal recognition for their existing kitchen experience.

Get in touch for further information, we’re here to help.

01896 66 26 00

enquiries@borderscollege.ac.uk