Train in the hospitality industry
The apprenticeship
Commis Chef Apprentice.
How to apply
For details on how to apply for the apprenticeship, log on to the webpage: apprenticeship.ie/en/apprentice/Pages/commis-chef.aspx or contact your local Education and Training Board.
What to expect
Working as a commis chef is a highly varied and eventful career. The apprenticeship is a two-year programme which involves three or four days per week on-the-job training, and one or two days per week off-the-job, depending on the time of year. The lead industry partner for this apprenticeship is the Irish Hotels Federation.
What you learn
Apprentices will gain the skills to prepare, cook and present a wide variety of foods and dishes to a professional standard. While training they are tutored in culinary techniques including pastry making, baking, and food science. Core skills are developed including hygiene in the food environment, how to safely store food, portion control, stock control and purchasing.
Prospects
The rate of pay is agreed between the employer and the apprentice, but must be at least the national minimum wage. Chefs are highly sought-after in the booming tourism industry and the salaries are extremely variable.
Salary
While a fourth year commis chef typically earns €25,000, they could rise to the level of an executive chef in a hotel and command a salary of over €75,000.