OCCUPATIONAL TRADE CERTIFICATE: KITCHEN HAND
Overview
Occupational Trade Certificate: Kitchen Hand
This full-time programme is designed for individuals entering the culinary field at a foundational level. It provides essential kitchen operation and hygiene skills through two training tracks:
- 2-Month Full-Time Short Course: Food Handler (QCTO Part-Qualification – NQF Level 2, 32 credits)
- 4-Month Full-Time Short Course: Kitchen Assistant (QCTO Part-Qualification – NQF Level 3, 52 credits)
Both options include the Highfield Certificate for Kitchen Assistants (UK RQF Level 2).
A Kitchen Hand plays a vital support role in any professional kitchen, ensuring cleanliness, helping with basic prep, and maintaining efficient workflow.
A qualified learner will be able to:
- Understand basic food safety and hygiene practices
- Assist with ingredient handling and basic food preparation
- Keep kitchen areas clean and organised
- Operate kitchen equipment safely and correctly
- Support chefs during food production and service
What You’ll Learn
- Kitchen safety, cleanliness, and hygiene protocols
- Correct storage and waste disposal procedures
- Safe handling of kitchen tools and equipment
- Support roles in food preparation and plating
- Understanding allergen risks and cross-contamination basics
- Teamwork and communication in a busy kitchen environment
Assessments
- Ongoing daily task assessments and checklists
- Supervisor observations of food safety and cleaning practices
- Simple hygiene and kitchen knowledge tests
- Practical demonstration of equipment usage and workstation setup
Requirements & Fees
For detailed fee information, please email our admissions team at info@purplecarrot.co.za
Who Should Apply
This course is perfect for:
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School leavers or job-seekers entering the kitchen workforce
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Individuals needing an accessible entry into the culinary field
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Staff at hospitality venues looking for foundational upskilling
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Those planning to pursue longer chef training in the future
Career Opportunities
📈 Graduates can work as:
- Kitchen Assistants / Kitchen Porters
- Food Prep Workers
- Hygiene & Cleaning Crew (hotels, restaurants, institutions)
- Catering Support Staff
- Entry point to Cook or Chef training
Feedback from Our Culinary Community
Its an authentic environment, with excellence and motivation for anyone who wants to become a chef, Great catering and the lodge is a great place to escape the buzz of the city
They put their heart and soul into the school. I only see growth.This is my favourite place in Potch. The students become outstanding chefs. Well done.
