Occupational Certificate: Chef
A QCTO-accredited NQF Level 5 chef qualification combining practical culinary training with real-world industry experience.
Occupational Certificate: Chef
A QCTO-accredited NQF Level 5 chef qualification combining practical culinary training with real-world industry experience.
Course credentials
Cerification:
Occuptaional Certificate: Chef (NQF Level 5, SAQA ID 101967)
Duration:
3 Year (18 months theory and 18 months of work experience)
Entrance Requirement:
National Senior Certificate (NSC)or National Senior Certificate Vocational (NCV) or equivalent.Learners who have achieved Grade 11 may also apply.
International Certification Elective:
Optional Highfield Qualifications (UK) Professional Chef award, leading to Professional Chef in Supervision.
COURSE OVERVIEW
Build your career as a Professional Chef
The Occupational Certificate: Chef is a nationally recognised NQF Level 5 qualification that prepares students for rewarding careers in the hospitality industry. Combining theoretical learning, practical culinary training and structured workplace experience, this three-year programme equips graduates with the knowledge, technical skills and confidence to excel in professional kitchens.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Career prospects ahead
Graduates of the Occupational Certificate: Chef may pursue careers as:
- Executive Chef
- Sous Chef
- Chef de Partie
- Pastry Chef
- Catering Manager
- Personal Chef
- Recipe or Menu Developer
- Head Cook
COURSE MODULES
What you will learn
Throughout the programme, students develop practical and theoretical skills in:
- Food Safety & Workplace Safety
- Kitchen Equipment & Knife Skills
- Professional Development
- Culinary Numeracy
- Kitchen Operations
- Food Production
- Cold Food Preparation
- Hot Food Preparation
- Menu Planning & Recipe Costing
- Nutrition, Allergens & Special Diets
- Work Experience I, II & III
COURSE FEES
Invest in your future
Occupational Certificate: Chef
R86 500.00 per year (2026)
Occupational Certificate: Chef with Highfield Qualifications Awards
R106 000.00 per year (2026)
Annual course fees are subject to change without prior notice. E&OE.