Toni, Max & Michal at work | © Kleinwalsertal Tourismus eGen | Fotograf: Werner Krug

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25 Jul. 2023 · News
Britta Maier

In 80 hours to the Vocational Qualification Exam (chef)

The intensive course followed by the vocational qualification exam paves the way for assistants to obtain a vocational qualification as a cook. Acquired knowledge and competencies in the profession are recognized, and essential background knowledge from a specialized education is supplemented. This tailor-made further qualification provides valuable additional skills and transforms assistants into professionals.

Philipp, Tamara, Nico & Niko at work | © Kleinwalsertal Tourismus eGen | Photographer: Werner Krug

Perhaps you have been working in the gastronomy industry for several years. Over time, you have gained a wealth of knowledge and skills. Maybe you hold a leading role in a kitchen team. However, you might not have undergone formal vocational training. In this post, you will discover why you should not miss the opportunity to catch up on the vocational qualification exam as a cook.

What benefits does the exam bring if I am already working as a cook?

Certainly, you can excel in your job without obtaining the vocational qualification. However, without this recognized certification, you are officially considered an "assistant" rather than a "professional". This has legal implications and risks for both you and your employer. For you as an employee, being classified as an assistant means that you will have lower benefits in cases of illness or retirement. In the event of a reduction in your work capacity due to an accident, you lack occupational protection. In most cases, completing a formal education enables higher income within the respective collective agreement and serves as the basis for various further education opportunities. In the long run, it secures your employment and improves your chances in the job market.

Dorian at work | © Kleinwalsertal Tourismus eGen | Photographer: Werner Krug

Kann jede/jeder den Kurs machen oder gibt es Voraussetzungen, die man erfüllen muss?

The course offers a compact and structured preparation for the official Austrian vocational qualification exam as a cook. To be eligible, you need relevant professional experience. Ideally, you have worked as a cook or kitchen assistant in Austria for at least 12 months on a full-time basis. Additionally, you must be at least 18 years old and have sufficient German language skills to take the exam in German.

What can I expect, and how much time should I plan for?

In the truest sense of the word, it is an intensive course. It is tailor-made to provide people with professional experience the theoretical knowledge that couldn't be acquired in everyday work. Moreover, the course offers practical preparation for the final exam. The course consists of a total of 80 hours of instruction. Beyond that, the most important factor is your motivation to seize the opportunity and invest time in self-study of the content.

Travel Charme Ifen Hotel kitchenteam | © Kleinwalsertal Tourismus eGen | Photographer: Werner Krug

What else do I need to invest besides time and motivation?

The course costs € 2.900 per participant, including course materials, 60 hours of theory lessons, and 20 hours of practical lessons in a training kitchen. You may discuss with your supervisor if there are possibilities for support or contribution to the costs, as there are also advantages for your employer when you have an official vocational qualification (e.g., liability issues regarding allergies, food safety, occupational safety, personal injuries, etc.). The exam fee (€350) is not included in the course fee, and participants are responsible for transportation and accommodation for two days in Innsbruck.

When and where does the course take place, and where is the exam conducted?

The theory and practical lessons will be held from November 2023 to June 2024, in weekly 2-hour sessions in Kleinwalsertal. The final exam will be conducted in June 2024 by the Apprenticeship Office of the Tyrolean Chamber of Commerce and will take place in Innsbruck.

Who offers the course?

The course is offered and conducted by HMC (Hospitality Management Consulting), led by Dietmar Fröhlich and Martin Büchele. Both have extensive experience as executive chefs with an international background. In addition to the required expertise for the exam, they will provide individual coaching to participants, preparing them for the exam to the best of their ability.

How can I enroll in the course, and where can I find more information?

To find out if the course is right for you, the best approach is to have an informal conversation with Martin Büchele. He is also available to answer any further questions regarding the course.

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