Professional Cookery
(Professional Cookery)
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INTRODUCTION:
If you have a desire to make a career in the food industry then this is the course for you. Learn the practical skills and knowledge of cooking and food that will allow you to either go straight to work in the catering industry or progress to higher education. The hospitality industry is an exciting dynamic area with employment opportunities all over the world. Students learn in a dedicated commercial setting in a purpose-built facility in Westside Campus located on Model Farm Road and students engage in field trips and site visits.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
- Leaving Certificate, LCA or QQI Level 4.
- Mature students are exempt from Leaving Certificate requirement.
- CERFL proficiency at B2 for access to Level 5 courses for those whose first language is not English.
- All applicants will undergo a processing stage during which further information will be gathered in relation to their application. An offer of a place on this course is contingent on the applicant meeting the entry requirements set out here and satisfactory completion of the processing stage.
DURATION:
September to May.
FEES:
See fees & payment for details.
CERTIFICATION
- QQI Level 5 Certificate in Professional Cookery (5M2088).
- QQI Component Maths (5N1833) – available as option in the evening in Morrison’s Island Campus for learners needing Maths for progression.
COURSE CONTENT
Culinary Techniques - 5N0630
Learn cooking methods carried out in a professional production kitchen where all aspects of the operation of the commercial kitchen are experienced. Classical and contemporary cooking methods.
Food Science and Technology - 5N0730
Study a range of industrial catering equipment including the working principle of each. Learn about food commodities (meat, fish, eggs, etc.) and their use in catering.
International Cuisines - 5N0632
Identify the basic ingredients and palette of flavours from selected regions of the world. Experience food commodities, cooking techniques and cooking equipment associated with world cuisines. Produce a meal from selected regions. Demonstrate principles of food safety and hygiene.
Meal Service - 5N0635
Explore factors that contribute to creating a meal experience. Learn the sequence of service, record reservations, take orders, serve food and wine, handle complaints, present the bill and evaluate guest feedback.
Menu Planning and Applied Nutrition - 5N2085
Apply nutritional knowledge to creative menu planning while considering the need for variety and balance in ingredients, flavours and textures. Understand common food allergies and intolerances and identify ingredients relevant to various food allergies. Explore the impact of nutrients on good health and their role in relation to illness.
Pastry, Baking and Desserts - 5N2084
Prepare a range of baked dishes, a range of breads, hot and cold desserts, sponges etc. Prepare a cheeseboard using appropriate accompaniments.
Personal Effectiveness - 5N1390
Reflect on your own personal role in a workplace including the skills needed for your job, personal strengths and weaknesses and the people issues and work practices which influence how you do your work.
Word Processing - 5N1358
Create and edit documents to a professional standard. Utilise Memos and Mailmerge for streamlining customer communication.
Work Practice - 5N1433
Participate in a minimum of 40 days work practice/placement undertaking a range of catering related roles.
ADDITIONAL TRAINING / WORKSHOPS
- Manual handling training and certification (requirement for work experience) – This training is mandatory for person’s involved in manual handling tasks. It is required by legislation under The Safety Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulation 2007 Part two chapter four. The training involves the theory module which is completed online (HSELanD.ie) and the practical module which is classroom based. The certificate obtained is valid for three years. Manual Handling training course delivers the proper techniques for lifting, carrying, loading, pushing and pulling various tasks or loads to reduce the risk of injury to the worker. The need to avoid manual handling by using mechanical aids where possible will also be demonstrated. It provides the skills to identify risks with various handling tasks.
- Food Safety Net Ireland Level 1 – The learners are trained to the standards set out by The Food Safety Authority of Ireland. The course includes Food Safety legislation, controlling Food Safety Hazards & Food Poisoning prevention, Safe Food handling – delivery to service and an introduction to HACCP. In addition, allergen awareness, personal hygiene the importance of cleaning & pest control and the recording of information is included. On completion of this programme, there is a Multipliable Choice Questionnaire and Certificate of Attendance is awarded.
- Food Safety Net Ireland Level 2 – Learners will attain knowledge on the principles of food hygiene and how to apply them to their workplace. The course includes Food Safety legislation & food hygiene, bacteria contamination and food poisoning prevention, premises and equipment and food safety hazards & controls – HACCP. Additionally, critical control points from delivery to service, personal hygiene, cleaning & pest control will be outlined. Allergen awareness and maintaining records and relevant documentation will be included. On completion of this programme there is a written exam and certification of completion is awarded.
- First Aid Workshop (online training) – This First Aid Workshop will introduce the learner to the principles of First Aid. The workshop includes identifying the role of the First Aider. Learners will understand how to respond to various injuries and illnesses including choking, fainting, burns, heart attacks, strokes, panic attacks, sprains and strains. A Certificate of Completion from Morrison’s Island Campus is issued on successful completion. The purpose of this workshop is to give the learner a basic understanding of how to deal with First Aid Emergencies. It is not intended as a substitute for a full First Aid Response Course.
- Fire Safety – This course provides you with the skills and know ledge to provide fire safety both at home and at work. You will also learn how to extinguish as fire using fire extinguishers and fire blankets and to evacuate and help others should a fire occur.
- Fine Dining – Students attend a fine dining experience during the year.
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State of the Art VR Training (Body Swaps) – We offer students the unique opportunity to enhance their soft skills using an advanced AI-powered learning platform. This cutting-edge technology allows learners to engage in realistic, immersive simulations helping to build essential skills like teamwork, communication and leadership. Get personal feedback and be prepared for real-world challenges.
FAQ’s
What are the entry requirements?
Leaving cert standard (regular Leaving Cert or LCA) for students under 21 years. Experience in the area or a genuine passion for cookery and relevant work experience in the area is beneficial for mature students.
How long does the course run for?
The course will run from mid-September to the following mid-May. It is a full-time day course.
The college closes for Mid-term, Christmas and Easter holidays as determined by the Department of Education and Skills.
What options are available to me if I complete the course?
Students who successfully complete the course and obtain a full award may progress to MTU or any other IT continue their studies.
Some students obtain full time employment.
Other go onto complete a Level 6 Commis Chef Apprenticeship with Training Centre.
Is work experience/placement organised by the college or do I have to find my own?
Work Experience/Placement is mandatory for this course. Students are generally required to source their own work placement. If students need assistance placements will be organised for the student. The work placement for this course is a minimum of 40 days, which is completed in industry, in the production kitchen & training restaurant.
Does the course offer a student visa for international students?
No. Please note that it is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that they meet Immigration and Visa requirements prior to applying for a place on a course. Post Leaving Certificate courses are not eligible to obtain a study visa to enter the state. Further details are available at www.icosirl.ie.
When do exams take place?
Exams occur in late April/ May each year. Exam timetables are published by the Examinations & Assessment Committee through the Student Intranet and the Exam Scheduler App.
What do I need to do to get a place on the course?
Firstly, students need to apply to www.morrisonsislandcampus.ie and complete an application online, following this they are sent a processing form. This form asks applicants more questions regarding the reasons for applying for the course.
WORK PLACEMENT / EXPERIENCE
Students must fulfill a minimum of 40 days work practice which is carried out 1 day per week in our training kitchen and restaurant and in a block placement in an industrial setting.
EDUCATION PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES
Excellent progressions opportunities including:
- MTU Cork: Hospitality Management (MT554), Culinary Arts (MT555).
Great progression opportunities Higher Education colleges. Special arrangements in place with MTU Cork (CCPS), MTU Kerry and SETU (Waterford & Carlow) for preferential entry for students of Morrisons Island locations. Go to our progressions database for exact requirements on progressions for this course.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Kitchen staff in bars, hotels and restaurants, contract caterers, bakeries, tea rooms and cafes, kitchens in hospitals and nursing homes, B&Bs and deli managers.