Diploma in Culinary Excellence Level 5

Program Overview

The Diploma in Culinary Excellence Level 5 is a two-year program designed for international students seeking advanced culinary skills. It combines foundational knowledge with advanced techniques, preparing graduates for intermediate chef positions in professional kitchens. The program emphasizes practical experience, hands-on training, and industry-standard assessments, equipping students for a successful career in the hospitality industry.

Program Outline

Diploma in Culinary Excellence Level 5

Degree Overview

The Diploma in Culinary Excellence Level 5 incorporates the New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Advanced) (Level 5) with strands in Cookery and Patisserie and the New Zealand Certificate in Cookery Level 3 and 4. This program is designed for international students who aim to acquire advanced general cookery skills and knowledge.

Objectives:

• To equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to work as chefs in intermediate positions in professional kitchens.
• To provide employed chefs with a credential that enhances their career opportunities.
• To establish standards of professional practice for advanced cookery, ensuring customer satisfaction in various hospitality environments.

Outline

The program is structured over two years, with the first year focusing on foundational skills and the second year delving into advanced techniques and applications.

Year One:

• Students will be introduced to basic food safety practices, health and safety procedures, communication skills, and professional conduct in the hospitality industry.
• They will gain hands-on experience in preparing and cooking various dishes, including stocks, sauces, soups, vegetables, eggs, rice, farinaceous products, pasta, fish, and meat.
• Additionally, they will learn about basic hot and cold dessert preparation and presentation.

Year Two:

• Students will be introduced to cost control and portion control principles in a commercial kitchen.
• They will learn how to monitor and manage staff performance and customer interactions to ensure service delivery outcomes are met.
• The program will also cover the application of standard operating procedures and policies, health and safety practices, and security measures within a hospitality organization.
• Students will gain advanced skills in preparing and presenting complex dishes, including cocktails, cold and hot larder products, various seafood dishes, complex pasta and poultry dishes, and intricate pastries.
• They will also learn about advanced dough development and baking techniques for various products.

Assessment

Assessment methods may include:

• Practical demonstrations and cooking tasks
• Written assignments and theoretical exams
• Portfolios showcasing student work
• Observation of skills and knowledge in a practical setting
• Oral presentations and discussions

Teaching

The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical demonstrations, and hands-on experience in the kitchen. Students will be taught by experienced chefs and instructors who are passionate about the culinary arts.

Careers

Graduates of this program can pursue various career paths in the hospitality industry, including:

• Chef de partie specializing in a specific area of the kitchen
• Sous chef assisting the head chef in managing the kitchen operations
• Restaurant chef leading the kitchen team in a restaurant
• Catering chef preparing food for events and functions
• Food stylist creating visually appealing food presentations for photography or film
• Culinary instructor sharing their knowledge and skills with aspiring chefs

Other

The program offers students the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a commercial kitchen environment. They will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, providing them with the opportunity to practice their skills and develop their culinary expertise.

• The program is available for international students only.

Conclusion

The Diploma in Culinary Excellence Level 5 provides a comprehensive and intensive program for international students who want to excel in the culinary arts. The program's well-structured curriculum, experienced instructors, and emphasis on practical experience prepare graduates for successful careers in the hospitality industry.