Leading by Example, Inspiring Through Education
Royal Academy of CULINARY ARTS
APPRENTICESHIPS
The RACA Chefs’ Apprenticeship Scheme is a three-year vocational course aimed at aspiring chefs. The accredited RACA Chefs Apprenticeship Scheme delivers comprehensive training to chefs whilst enabling them to work in some of the finest establishments in the UK.
The RACA Chefs Apprenticeship Scheme differs from a routine apprenticeship in a number of ways. Firstly, is the standard of employer and establishment where the apprentice is employed during their training. The RACA apprentices are able to develop knowledge and skills, not just to meet the government-approved apprenticeship standards but also to develop beyond that to be capable of working in some of the finest kitchens in the world. Our apprentices also benefit from a range of enrichments to the curriculum such as masterclasses from leading chefs and visits to Michelin-starred kitchens and renowned suppliers.
At the end of the RACA Chefs Apprenticeship Scheme, the apprentices sit the RACA Graduation Exam and, if successful, achieve the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Chef Diploma. This diploma sets them apart from those who have completed an apprenticeship through a standard route.
Once you have graduated from the RACA Chefs Apprenticeship Scheme you will be invited to join The RACA Alumni Network.
More information about the RACA Apprenticeship and all of our partner colleges is available in our PDF guide here.
the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Chefs’ Apprenticeship
ABOUT THE COURSE
The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA) is widely recognised as the premier chefs’ association in the UK, is well respected by the industry and other professional bodies, and, most importantly, is synonymous with excellence in training. Excellence is sought in all aspects of the RACA Chefs’ Apprenticeship Scheme: the apprentices, the lecturers, the training delivery partners, the employers, and the course content.
The RACA Chefs’ Apprenticeship Scheme is rigorous and challenging; it equips its apprentices with a wide range of in-depth skills underpinned by sound theoretical knowledge and it aims to provide employers with the best-trained chef apprentices in the industry. An equally important part of the Apprenticeship Scheme is the pastoral care given to the apprentices during the programme. Each of our training delivery partners must appoint a tutor whose main role is to fully support the apprentices throughout their training in both their work and personal lives.
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The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts is a membership organisation for chefs, pastry chefs and restaurant managers. We do not currently have a physical school to study hospitality. However, if you are aged 16 to 19 we do offer a three-year vocational apprenticeship programme for Chefs at Bournemouth and Poole College, Westminster Kingsway College, University College Birmingham and City of Liverpool College.
I fit the age bracket; how do I apply for the apprenticeship?
You must apply to the colleges directly and ask them if you wish to be a Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Apprentice Chef. Click on the links below to take you through to the college’s webpage for more information.
What Qualifications will I receive?
Apprentices will work towards a nationally recognised qualification as well as the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts accredited Chef Diploma exam at the end of the programme.
our philosphy
Applicants must show the right attitude and aptitude as well as a keen interest and knowledge of the industry. Typical questions that applicants will be asked in the interview include:
Did you take food studies at school?
If so, what grade did you get?
Do you cook at home?
What experience, if any, do you have in the hospitality industry?
Do you know anyone who works in the industry?
Can you name three celebrity chefs?
Can you name three well-known restaurants?
In addition, applicants and their parents will normally be invited to an open evening to ensure that each applicant fully understands the demands of the course and to ensure that the parents fully support the applicant. Each applicant should be interviewed by the course leader and pastoral lead. All applicants should undertake a taster day with the training delivery partner as part of the interview process.
Leaders of tomorrow
Education Committee
The Scheme aims to develop apprentices in the practical, theoretical and intellectual aspects of food and the hospitality business in order to lay the foundations for a career as a highly skilled practitioner and ambassador of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts. It aims to turn out chefs whose objective is to gain sustainable employment and act as role models for the next generation. Such a role carries with it responsibilities which are recognised across the global industry, and as such individuals possess the talent required to work in this international profession.
A full list of the members of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Education Committee can be found here.