The British Institute of Innkeeping launches Essential in Catering qualification

The British Institute of Inkeeping Awarding Body (BIIAB) has launched an Essentials in Catering award.

It is for people wishing to pursue a career in catering and intended for those wanting to operate safely, effectively and efficiently in a kitchen environment.

Cathie Smith, director of BIIAB, said: "With the forthcoming smoking ban ever closer, many pubs are looking at expanding or even introducing a food offering to broaden their appeal. This award offers short, sharp focused training."

Smith said the new qualification was not aimed at those that wanted to be the next Jamie Oliver but rather to teach those new to food preparation the basic skills.

The award is delivered through a workbook in the work place so people can learn on the job and will eventually consist of three skill levels.

Essentials in Catering level one covers a range of areas such as personal hygiene, basic knife skills, storage and preparation of food and cleaning and temperature control.

It is available from 1 June priced £15 for a workbook and £15 for an assessment.

Read more on the smoking ban here >>

Read more on Jamie Oliver here >>

One in four English pubs not prepared for smoking ban >>

By Chris Druce

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