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Hands-On Training for the Real World
Stratford Chefs School immerses students in hands-on culinary training with acclaimed chefs. Practical courses build real-world culinary skills to succeed as chefs and hospitality entrepreneurs. Graduates have a well-rounded foundation for culinary careers and are prepared to take their Red Seal certification.
The mix of practical and theory courses exposes students to all aspects of cuisine and facilitates the student’s development into a skilled and thoughtful chef.
Cook Apprentices at Stratford Chefs School begin by learning basic skills and techniques from our expert Chef Instructors.
Entrepreneurial Model
Our unique entrepreneurial model provides training in all aspects of owning and operating a small business.
Graduates of Stratford Chefs School have a well-rounded foundation for success in a wide variety of specializations within the hospitality industry.
Enriched Curriculum
Our enriched curriculum means 16 week academic semesters, more than the provincial curriculum standard of 12 weeks.
Stratford Chefs School’s in-class training hours exceed provincial requirements by 244 hours in level 1 and by 360 hours in level 2 – that’s more than 604 additional in-class training hours over the full program.
Apprenticeship*
Apprenticeship* is based on the premise that we learn by doing, under the guidance of experienced practitioners in a skilled trade.
A Cook Apprentice at Stratford Chefs School begins by learning basic skills and techniques under the watchful eyes of our expert Chef Instructors through our immersive, hands-on program model.
As training progresses, students gain the experience and skills required to meet the increasingly complex demands of the trade. After successfully completing the required elements of training, a student is eligible for Red Seal certification. Apprenticeship training is completed by passing the Certification of Qualification (Red Seal) Exam.
Program Schedule
- Mid-October through early March (for 2 years with a 6-month work term in between, April through September).
- Rotating Class Schedule – Tuesday through Saturday 8am to 10pm
Credential:
- Diploma in Cookery (2-year)
- ADVANCED.fst 3rd. Ed. Management Level Certificate in Food Safety Training (if eligible)
- Certificate of Apprenticeship (if eligible)
- Cook Red Seal Certification (if eligible)
Learn more about life as a Student Chef at Stratford Chefs School.
APPRENTICESHIP FAQ:
What is an Apprenticeship Contract?
*What are the qualifications to become an Apprentice in Ontario?:
Do I need an Apprenticeship Contract before beginning the Stratford Chefs School program?
What if I already have an active Cook Apprenticeship Contract?
CERTIFICATION OF QUALIFICATION (RED SEAL) EXAM FAQ:
Does Stratford Chefs School offer a Red Seal Exam Preparatory Course?
How do I Complete my Apprenticeship?