Hospitality & Catering

The hospitality industry embraces food preparation, customer service and management roles in a range of settings.  Courses at SERC in hospitality and catering may cover cooking techniques, food presentation, menu planning, and managing catering operations.

We focus on practical experience gained in professional-standard facilities and on work placements or employment. Students are also encouraged to test their developing skills in competitions – and often bring home medals and awards to prove their abilities!

Ready to see what’s available? Use the button to jump to courses, or explore the highlights below.

Why study Hospitality & Catering at SERC

Build the skills to thrive in fast-paced hospitality environments — from professional cookery and food presentation to customer service and event operations. You’ll learn in industry-standard facilities, develop confidence through practical sessions and work placement opportunities, and gain the knowledge employers look for across restaurants, hotels and catering.

Professional Cookery Skills

Develop core kitchen skills including preparation, cooking methods, timing and organisation in a professional setting.

Food Presentation & Menu Planning

Learn how to plan menus, control portions and costs, and present dishes to a high standard.

Customer Service & Front of House

Build confidence in communication, service standards and teamwork — from taking orders to handling guests professionally.

Food Safety & Hygiene

Work safely and hygienically in line with industry expectations, including allergen awareness and safe food handling.

Progression & Careers

Prepare for progression into roles such as Chef, Pastry Chef, Front of House, Barista, Catering Assistant, Events or Hotel Operations — with routes into apprenticeships, employment or higher-level study.

Available Courses

Explore our diverse range of courses designed to ignite your passion and enhance your skills, offering a dynamic learning experience tailored to your interests and goals.

What our students say

Hear from recent students about their experience at SERC — teaching, support, and progression opportunities.

Picture of Ethan Hopkins

Ethan Hopkins

Level 3 Diploma in Professional Chef
“The lecturers and all the staff are lovely; all the time I feel encouraged and supported to do my best and to progress. I would recommend the college to anyone - they care about their students and offer a wide variety of courses and opportunities.”
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Picture of Dylan Murphy

Dylan Murphy

Level 3 Work-Based Apprenticeship in Professional Cookery
“SERC’s facilities on campus are really good. There are fully functioning kitchens which are great to train in, and the lecturing staff are always hands on and happy to help with anything.”
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Picture of Olha Vasylieva

Olha Vasylieva

Level 2 Diploma in Professional Chef
“I truly enjoy the course — I love learning new recipes and techniques. Thanks to the course, I even gained work experience at the Slieve Donard Hotel, which was an unforgettable experience.”
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Important Dates

Key milestones to help you plan your next steps.

Anytime

Apply Online

5 Mar

Full-Time Open Evening

4 Jun

Full-Time & Part-Time Open Evening

1 Sept

Term Starts