If you’re passionate about food, eager to grow your skills, or looking to step into the culinary world without committing to full-time study, the Sense of Taste Chef School Part-Time Course is the perfect opportunity. Recognised as one of South Africa’s top culinary institutions, our school provides industry-respected training designed for working professionals, aspiring chefs, and anyone ready to explore their talent in the kitchen.
Award-Winning Excellence You Can Trust
Sense of Taste Chef School proudly holds multiple national accolades, including the Gourmet Guide Award for Best Chef School in 2023 and 2024, along with the award for Most Purpose and Passion in South Africa.
Our passion for culinary education is matched by our expertise, and this is further reflected by our Principal, Debs Ayub, who received the highly respected FOODXX Award for Best Educator for 2024/2025.
When you train with us, you’re learning from a school, and a leader celebrated for delivering exceptional results.
A Flexible, Career-Driven Course for Aspiring and Working Professionals
Our 12-week part-time course is designed specifically for:
Employees in the food and hospitality sector seeking formal qualifications
- Individuals aiming to work on Super Yachts or Cruise Liners
- School leavers exploring culinary career paths
- Anyone interested in gaining practical, professional kitchen skills
If you’re unsure whether the culinary field is your long-term direction, this course offers a clear and practical introduction, helping you make an informed decision about your future.
And for companies investing in staff development, this course is a tax-deductible expense, making it a valuable opportunity for employers as well.
Industry Collaboration and Proven Success
For the past five years, Sense of Taste Chef School has successfully run this programme, partnering with respected establishments such as Bao Down Restaurant, Reverie Social Table, The Luke Dale Roberts Group, De Grendel Restaurant, Utopia Restaurant, and the Royal Cape Yacht Club. Through the course, countless students and school leavers have gained the skills and confidence to enter the culinary industry with competence and enthusiasm.
Our Kitchen Assistant Course is internationally accredited, giving every student a globally recognised qualification.
Course Dates and Structure
The next part-time course will run from:
Monday, 19 January 2026 – Monday, 13 April 2026
Every Monday | 16h00–20h30 | 12 Weeks
Location: Sense of Taste Chef School, Maitland, Cape Town
Internationally Accredited Qualification
Sense of Taste Chef School is fully accredited with:
- QCTO – SDP091022151507
- Highfield International Qualification – Centre 16215
- South African Chefs Association – Member 27319
- South African Culinary and Hospitality Forum – Member 37899
We are also listed on the DHET database as a registered Private Education Institution.
Students complete the Highfield International Level 2 Certificate for Kitchen Assistants, aligned with the Sense of Taste Chef School’s international qualification (RQF 6027145/X).
What the Course Includes
Your enrolment fee covers everything you need to begin your culinary journey:
- All ingredients
- Full chef uniform (pants, skull cap, apron, jacket)
- Teaching and assessment time
- Internal Quality Assurance
- International learner registration with Highfield International
- International Food Safety in Catering exam (endorsed by the Maritime Coast Guard Agency – ideal for yacht and cruise liner placements)
- International Health & Safety in the Workplace exam
- International certificate upon completion
- A graduation celebration
Students are required to bring a recognised starter knife set (brands recommended include Wüsthof, Victorinox, Zwilling, or Global) and have access to a basic laptop or smartphone.
Attendance and note-taking are compulsory, and students must wear full uniform each Monday.
What You Will Learn
This hands-on qualification covers essential kitchen operations and core culinary preparation, including:
- Bread and doughs
- Salads and dressings
- Pâtés and terrines
- Fish and beef preparation
- Pasta
- Vegetables
- Cold sauces and more
Students also complete all relevant theory, health and safety modules, and practical assessments outlined in the Highfield qualification log.
Course Fees and Payment Details
Total Investment: R29,000
This covers the full 12-week program, all exams, equipment, and certifications.
Payment Schedule:
- R5,000 deposit to secure your space
- Remaining balance due by 5 January 2026
