General Patisserie & Confectionery Level 2 Certificate (City and Guilds)

Course Overview

Fee disclaimer

  • This course is FREE for most students.
  • A £30 membership fee applies to all students.
  • No payment is required when you apply. After submitting your application, our customer service team will contact you to confirm your eligibility for free or discounted fees and guide you through the next steps.
  • You might be surprised at how many ways you can qualify for funding. Check your eligibility here.

Entry requirements

This course is designed for learners who are serious about developing a professional career as a pastry chef — it is not a leisure course. You’ll need at least Level 1 English skills and a strong commitment to maintaining high professional standards in the kitchen. We’re looking for motivated, reliable learners who show a positive attitude, good teamwork, and a genuine passion for learning the craft of patisserie and confectionery in a real working environment.

Course information

This hands-on Level 2 course is your gateway to a career in the world of professional baking and desserts. You’ll master essential techniques — from delicate pastries and rich doughs to elegant cakes and puddings — while learning about food safety, healthier menus and kitchen operations in a real working environment. Whether you dream of becoming a pastry chef or running your own bakery, this qualification builds the creativity, discipline and technical skills employers look for. Step into the kitchen and start crafting beautiful, professional-quality creations.

Key topics

  • Producing hot and cold desserts and puddings
  • Producing paste products (e.g. choux, shortcrust, puff pastry)
  • Producing biscuits, cakes and sponges
  • Producing fermented dough products (e.g. breads, brioche, doughnuts)
  • Food safety in catering and hygiene practices
  • Health and safety in professional kitchens
  • Healthier foods and special diets
  • Catering operations, costs and menu planning
  • Applying workplace skills (professionalism, teamwork, CVs, interviews)
  • How you are assessed

    Continuous practical assessments & theory assessed through written short answer questionnaires.

    Professional kitchens demand the highest standards of hygiene and presentation. Learners are expected to maintain excellent personal cleanliness and follow all food safety regulations at all times. This includes: No jewellery (except a plain wedding band) for safety and hygiene reasons. No false nails, nail varnish, eyelash extensions, or heavy makeup, as these can contaminate food. Hair must be clean, tied back and fully covered with a hat or hairnet. Clean, pressed chef whites and safety shoes must be worn for every session. Hands and nails must be kept short, clean, and free from cuts or infections. Good personal hygiene is essential — regular handwashing and use of clean protective clothing are required. Learners who do not meet these standards may be asked to correct their appearance before participating in any practical work.

  • Why study at NCC?

    At New City College, you’ll learn in our fully equipped professional kitchens and patisserie labs, guided by expert chefs with real industry experience. You’ll gain hands-on skills in a realistic restaurant environment, producing desserts and pastries to professional standards for real customers. Beyond perfecting your craft, you’ll build confidence, teamwork, and employability skills that set you apart in the hospitality industry. Whether your goal is to work in a high-end restaurant, a local bakery, or start your own business, this course gives you the practical foundation and professional edge to make it happen.

Available Campuses

Dates Schedule Max. fee if paid
Start: 07/01/2026
End: 20/05/2026
To be confirmed
£360.00

What Can This Course Lead To

This qualification opens the door to a wide range of exciting opportunities in the hospitality and catering industry. Many learners progress into roles such as commis pastry chef, baker, or dessert specialist in restaurants, hotels, or patisseries. You can also continue your studies at Level 3 to further develop your skills and leadership potential. Whether you aim to work in fine dining, event catering, or start your own bakery, this course provides the perfect foundation for your career.

Life At NCC

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Facilities for Students

At New City College we have a range of world-class facilities across our campuses.

Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.

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