Cook Apprenticeship

Do you love to cook but want to take your cooking to another level? Turn your love of cooking into a career and expand your skills in the kitchen through the Cook Apprenticeship program. 

Train to become a Cook and explore ways to prepare food in eating establishments including hotels, restaurants, institutions, trains and cruise ships. Successful completion culminates in receipt of a Journeyman’s Certificate and interprovincial Red Seal, the preferred designation for Cooks in the hospitality industry. 

In this program you will learn from experienced chefs and explore both modern and classical cuisine. You will spend a lot of your technical training in restaurant/industry kitchens to support and apply the theory you learn in class. You will also have opportunities to volunteer to help with catering events in the community to create connections and further your learning. 

Take the skills you learn and challenge yourself. This trade has an opportunity for you to compete in the Provincial Skills Canada Competition, Skills Canada National Competition and WorldSkills Competition. 

Are you worried about the time commitment? You can learn while you work. Red Deer Polytechnic is pleased to offer Cook Apprenticeship Training in the W.A.T.S. format. You will attend Red Deer Polytechnic one day per week for 40 weeks, early September through late June. This format allows you to maintain employment while completing your formal training.  

When you graduate, you’ll receive both a:   

• Journeyperson Certificate: This certificate not only acknowledges your expertise in your chosen trade but also grants you the legal authority to work in that trade.  

• Education Credential: This is a formal testament to your dedication and hard work. It confirms that you've successfully finished a Diploma in a post-secondary study program and highlights the time and effort you've invested in mastering your trade or profession.