The BII is to roll out level 2 of its new catering qualification this Autumn.
The BIIAB Level 1 Award in Essentials of Catering (ECA) was launched in over 50 centres across the UK earlier this year and has proved popular.
The qualification is designed for those wanting to operate safely, effectively and efficiently in a kitchen environment, and has been accredited by QCA.
Level 2 will cover more operational issues and Level 3, which is scheduled to launch next year, will focus on higher levels of kitchen management.
The qualifications have been developed in conjunction with consultant Nick Taylor-Guy, former director of human resources & general manager of Ubon by Nobu, and the support of a steering group with representatives from employers such as Punch, Marstons, St Austell Brewery and The Restaurant Group. The qualifications are designed to be progressive and accessible at any level.
Director of BIIAB Cathie Smith said: "The Level 1 Award in Essentials of Catering has been very popular with our approved centres and we have more coming on board to offer the qualification every day. With QCA accreditation it will benefit candidates from all sectors as it offers a truly portable award and a great stepping stone to a career or further study in catering. Before the development of this series of qualifications, the only choices were NVQs or longer term VRQs for professional cookery and they are often not suitable for a wide range of people in the licensed retail industry due to the time and costs involved."