Chef Training & Hospitality - LEVEL 3

U-Skills Academy 2 Day New Zealand Certificate in Cookery Level 3

Gain advanced skills in cooking and preparing food, so you’re ready to work in a commercial kitchen!


Quick Facts

Locations
UCOL Manawatū in Palmerston North, UCOL Whanganui
Dates

Starting: Week of 09 Feb 2026

Finishing: Week ending 30 Oct 2026

Delivery days:

Palmerston North - Thursdays and Fridays

Whanganui - Tuesdays and Wednesdays


View Timetable
Domestic Fees
Fees-Free

Application Forms

Overview

This programme will help you to refine your skills in cooking pasta, egg, and vegetable dishes and you'll also learn how to apply food safety practices within a professional establishment.

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for this programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school. Once you've talked to everyone required, you can use the form at the top of the page to apply.

Course Hours

Delivered from 9am - 3pm in each location.

Whanganui - Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9am - 3pm

Palmerston North - Thursdays and Fridays, 9am - 3pm

Course Information

This programme comprises 60 credits.

Unit Standard 13314 (Level 3) (Version 7) (4 Credits)

Prepare and cook egg dishes in a commercial kitchen.

Unit Standard 27955 (Level 3) (Version 4) (5 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of and apply food safety practices in a food-related establishment.

Unit Standard 13293 (Level 3) (Version 6) (6 Credits)

Prepare and cook basic vegetable dishes in a commercial kitchen.

Unit Standard 27929 (Level 3) (Version 2) (5 Credits)

Apply standard operating procedures and the code of conduct to a work role in a service delivery workplace.

Unit Standard 13316 (Level 3) (Version 6) (3 Credits)

Prepare and cook basic pasta dishes in a commercial kitchen.

Unit Standard 13315 (Level 3) (Version 6) (6 Credits)

Prepare cook, and present rice and farinaceous dishes in a commercial kitchen.

Unit Standard 27927 (Level 3) (Version 2) (5 Credits)

Apply health, safety and security practices to a work role in a service delivery workplace.

Unit Standard 13322 (Level 3) (Version 6) (4 Credits)

Prepare and cook basic pastry dishes in a commercial kitchen.

Unit Standaard 13310 ((Level 3) (Version 6) (5 credits)

Prepare and produce basic hot and cold dessert items in a commercial kitchen.

Unit Standard 27928 (Level 3) (Version 2) (5 Credits)

Interact with other staff and managers, and customers to provide service delivery outcomes.

Unit Standard 13288 (Level 3) (Version 6) (8 Credits)

Prepare and cook basic meat dishes in a commercial kitchen.

Unit Standard 13304 (Level 3) (Version 7) (4 Credits)

Prepare and cook basic fish dishes in a commercial kitchen.

Domestic Entry Requirements

For year 12 - 13 secondary school learners (NZ Citizens, permanent residents or learners with an applicable visa allowing them to be enrolled in a secondary school), aged 16 years or over.

Applications are to be received from participating schools.

International Entry Requirements

Not applicable.

Career Opportunities

Successful completion of the UCOL Academy 2 Day New Zealand Certificate in Cookery Level 3 programme is the first step in a journey. Equipped with new skills and a taste for the industry, you will know what you need to do to pursue a career in the culinary industry.

If this is for you, you can undertake further tertiary studies in:

Employment Opportunities:

  • Barista

  • Chef

  • Baker

  • Customer Service/Front of House

Advice And Guidance

This programme is part of a suite of Academy 2 Day programmes offered by UCOL to secondary learners seeking to explore their career options while still in school. Gain practical experience and NCEA Credits.

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for the UCOL Academy 2 Day New Zealand Certificate in Cookery Level 3 programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school.

Cost

Fees-free when criteria are met.

Transport

Transport assistance is available if you meet the criteria.

Attendance expectations

Learners must maintain appropriate attendance at both secondary school and UCOL to remain enrolled in the programme.