GOTAFE (Northern Victoria Institute of TAFE)
2 years (part-time general public); 3 years (apprenticeship); 3 years (school-based apprenticeship/traineeship)
Master professional cooking skills and kitchen operations to become a qualified commercial cook. This hands-on course covers all aspects of the culinary trade, from food preparation techniques to kitchen safety and team dynamics, preparing you for careers in restaurants, hotels, and hospitality venues.
Applicants must complete a Basic Key Skills Builder (BKSB) online test to demonstrate required literacy and numeracy levels. A Pre-training Review interview is required to ensure the course suits your needs and aspirations. Apprenticeship or Traineeship applicants must apply through an Apprenticeship Network Provider with their employer to organise their apprenticeship contract before applying. Students must have a laptop/computer with internet access, access to a digital camera or video camera, general stationery, a set of commercial cookery knives (for apprentices), standard commercial cookery uniform, and enclosed shoes.
The course comprises 25 units (20 core and 5 elective) covering: food preparation equipment use, basic cookery methods, appetisers and salads, stocks/sauces/soups, vegetable/fruit/eggs/farinaceous dishes, vegetarian and vegan dishes, poultry and meat dishes, seafood preparation, cakes/pastries/breads, special dietary requirements, professional cooking practices, kitchen hygiene and equipment cleaning, recipe planning and costing, dessert production, food safety and hygienic practices, stock management, safe work practices, and coaching others in job skills. Elective units include sandwich preparation, food packaging, cook-chill/cook-freeze foods, buffet service, and pâtés and terrines.
GOTAFE is a government-accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO 3094) delivering nationally recognised qualifications with established delivery across multiple campuses in Northern Victoria. The institute provides comprehensive student support services including learning support, disability accommodations, counselling, and career guidance. This course is available through the Free TAFE scheme for eligible students, making quality vocational training accessible. GOTAFE's experienced trainers deliver blended learning combining on-campus practical training with workplace experience.
Graduates are eligible for roles as Commercial Cooks in professional kitchens across the hospitality industry, including restaurants, hotels, clubs, pubs, and cafés. Further study pathways include Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery (SIT40516) or Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (SIT40521), leading to supervisory and management positions. The skills developed provide a foundation for career progression within the culinary profession, from line cook positions to head chef or kitchen management roles.
