New BII catering qualification

The BII has launched a new catering qualification.

The Essentials in Catering Award (ECA) aims to assist the licensed trade in gaining more kitchen skills.

The award, which is available from 1 June, is the first of three awards for people wishing to pursue a career in catering.

The award has been developed in conjunction with consultant Nick Taylor-Guy, former director of human resources & general manager of Ubon by Nobu.

Director of BIIAB Cathie Smith said: "This is not aimed at people who want to be the next Jamie Oliver but to teach those new to food preparation the basic skills. The award is delivered through a workbook in the work place and enables people to learn on the job. It is designed to be flexible and can be delivered in the workplace or through BIIAB centres. People who pass this award will receive a nationally recognised qualification."

"With the forthcoming smoking ban getting ever closer, many pubs are looking at expanding or even introducing a food offering to broaden their appeal and attract new customers. This award offers short, sharp focused training which supports the industry in developing their food offering to help expand their customer base.

Level 1 covers personal hygiene, work clothing, basic knife skills, storage and preparation of food, sandwich making, food presentation, wastage, recycling and disposal, use and cleaning of basic kitchen machinery, cleaning of floors, walls and workstations, and temperature monitoring and recording. It is available from 1st June - prices £15 for the workbook and £15 for the assessment.

for more information see www.bii.org​