Photo courtesy of RDP.
Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) ranked 17th among the best culinary schools in Canada by University Magazine.
“We are proud to be acknowledged across the nation for our dynamic culinary programming,” said Garnett Schoettler, Chair of Culinary Programs and Instructor at RDP. “At Red Deer Polytechnic, we offer enhanced education and training opportunities in collaboration with industry partners that help fulfill labour market demand.”
RDP offers a three-year, part-time Cook Apprenticeship and a two-year, full-time Culinary Arts Diploma program, to fit students’ needs.
In both programs, aspiring cooks learn from experienced chefs, advancing their knowledge and skills in a range of areas, including food preparation, nutrition, and budgeting, an RDP news release said.
Students enrolled in the Cook Apprenticeship attend the Polytechnic one day per week for 40 weeks annually, providing opportunities to apply their culinary knowledge in the workplace.
Students dedicate 1,560 hours yearly, and 4,680 hours honing their skills in paid industrial settings.
Upon completing the Cook Apprenticeship program, graduates receive both an education credential and a journeyperson certificate.
In the final year, students are eligible to earn a Red Seal Endorsement on their journeyperson certificate after passing the Red Seal Exam, providing flexibility, and allowing journeypersons to work anywhere in Canada, the release said.
Photo courtesy of RDP.
Students enrolled in the Culinary Arts Diploma program explore the art and science of professional cooking and learn the latest culinary techniques and tools in RDP’s commercial kitchen.
In a team-oriented and creative environment, students build on foundational techniques and practices to learn advanced food-preparation skills as culinary experts, the release said.
Throughout the program, students advance their competencies by participating in both a 480-hour co-op and work-integrated learning opportunities in RDP’s Cornerstone Dining Room.
In addition to establishing industry connections, students earn a wage during their co-op.
Graduates of the Polytechnic’s culinary programs are equipped to pursue careers as a chef, caterer, kitchen manager, restaurant owner, and within the hospitality sector.
**With information provided by Red Deer Polytechnic
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