Designed for those with a genuine passion for hospitality, this hands-on qualification provides a strong foundation for a career in food and beverage service. Learners develop a broad understanding of front-of-house operations, industry standards and workplace expectations, while building the professionalism, confidence and customer service skills employers value. Teaching combines practical and theory-based learning to strengthen service delivery, communication, teamwork and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment. A key feature is the opportunity to gain real industry experience in a public-facing restaurant, City Bistro, where learners work with real customers and experience the pace, standards and expectations of professional service. This immersive environment helps learners build confidence, refine customer care skills and understand what it takes to succeed in a real hospitality setting, supporting strong employability and career progression within the industry.
No formal entry requirements.
| Study level | Cost |
|---|---|
| 16-18 | Free |
The course is delivered through a combination of theory sessions and practical learning to give students a strong understanding of the hospitality industry. During theory sessions, learners will explore key industry topics such as industry legislation, food safety, workplace hazards, and beverage knowledge, helping them understand the standards and responsibilities expected in a professional environment.
Achieving a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths and English is important, but if you're not there yet, don’t worry! We provide supportive classes to help you meet these essential criteria. These subjects form the backbone of your educational toolkit, opening doors to further studies and exciting apprenticeships. Our sessions in Maths and English will equip you with the skills needed to thrive academically and professionally.
Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.
At Sunderland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.
The aim of this course is to help students develop the confidence, skills, and real industry experience needed to succeed in the hospitality sector. Learners will build strong customer service and communication skills, gain practical workplace experience, and understand professional standards expected by employers.
Food Safety in Catering – Learn essential practices for safe food handling, hygiene standards, and how to maintain a clean and safe environment in the kitchen and service areas.
Legislation in Food and Beverage Service – Understand the key laws and regulations that govern food and beverage service, including health, safety, and licensing requirements.
Menu Knowledge and Design – Gain an understanding of menu structure, ingredients, and dietary requirements, helping you serve customers knowledgeably and confidently.
Principles of Beverage Product Knowledge – Explore different types of beverages, their characteristics, preparation methods, and how to serve them correctly.
Service of Hot Beverages – Develop practical skills for preparing, serving, and presenting hot drinks to customers professionally.
Food and Beverage Service Skills – Build hands-on expertise in taking orders, serving food and drinks, and delivering high-quality service in real hospitality settings.
Handling Payments and Maintaining the Payment Point – Learn to manage payments accurately, operate tills, and maintain professional standards at the point of sale.
After completing this qualification, learners can progress onto further study, including the Level 3 in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership, supporting development into senior front-of-house and supervisory roles. Others may choose to enter employment, with opportunities in roles such as waiter or waitress, bar staff, café assistant and other customer facing positions across the hospitality and food service sector. Whether continuing education or moving straight into work, learners gain a strong foundation for long term career development in a dynamic, people-focused industry.
Find out everything you need to know about Sunderland College and our exciting range of courses!
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Rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted
Ofsted, 2024
94% Overall pass rate for T Levels
2022-23
Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement
NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024
We have International award winning Immersive Spaces at both Bede and City Campus