TAFE NSW
2 years
Become a trade-qualified pastry chef or baker through this nationally recognised apprenticeship program. Learn to create professional cakes, pastries, and artisan goods while developing essential bakery production and food safety skills from experienced industry professionals.
You must have evidence of previous experience or study before enrolling. For apprenticeship entry, you need to be employed as an apprentice in the industry with a letter of support from your employer and a completed Training Plan Proposal (TPP). It's recommended that you have an interest in working with people, a passion for food and baking, and the ability to rise early for baking duties. You should be able to plan your work, solve problems independently, read everyday texts, write short sentences, speak clearly in groups, solve practical maths problems, and use basic digital devices.
The Certificate III in Cake and Pastry comprises 15 units of competency: 11 core units and 4 specialty units. Core units cover essential industry competencies including work health and safety processes, numerical applications, basic artisan product production, cake and pastry production scheduling, biscuit and cookie production, cake and pudding production, food safety procedures, sponge cake production, non-laminated and laminated pastry production, and food preparation equipment use. Specialty units allow customisation and include bread products, meringue products, specialist pastries, gateaux and tortes, coaching skills, retail customer service, product advisory, merchandise, HACCP procedures, advanced baked product development, bakery stock control, first aid, dietary considerations, and basic cooking methods.
TAFE NSW is a leading registered training organisation (RTO 90003) with extensive experience in vocational education. They offer nationally recognised qualifications that are portable across Australian states, allowing graduates to work anywhere without additional upskilling. With multiple campus locations across NSW and flexible study options including apprenticeships, online, and hybrid delivery, TAFE NSW provides comprehensive support services including disability support, language and literacy assistance, counselling, and career guidance to ensure student success.
Graduates of this Certificate III in Cake and Pastry are well-positioned for careers in professional bakeries, pastry shops, hotels, restaurants, and catering companies. Career pathways include roles as pastry cooks, chef patissiers, and pastry sous chefs. The qualification provides a strong foundation to continue further study and enhance career opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industry. Your experience and prior learning are recognised, allowing potential credit transfers to accelerate progression into advanced baking and culinary qualifications.
