Considering a Career in the Culinary Industry?

become a chef culinary school south africa

Students at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine train directly under Chef Jackie Cameron / Sarah Jane Photography

How to Become a Chef in South Africa

Are you passionate about food and dreaming of a career as a Chef in South Africa? If you're eager to enter the culinary industry but unsure where to start, Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine provides a premier education designed to set you up for success.

The Best Culinary School in South Africa

Located in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine offers an immersive and practical approach to culinary education.

What You Will Learn

This boutique culinary institution covers all aspects of the culinary arts, ensuring students gain comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience. Key areas of training include:

  • Sourcing home-grown local ingredients

  • Mastering the art of fine-dining plating techniques

  • Baking pastries and breads

  • Understanding wines and food pairings

  • Food styling and restaurant operations

  • Health, hygiene, and first aid training

  • Restaurant operations, business management and entrepreneurship

Career Opportunities for Chefs in South Africa

Graduates of Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine are equipped with the skills to pursue a variety of exciting culinary careers, including:

  • Working as a Chef in top restaurants, hotels and cruise ships

  • Becoming as a Private Chef on luxury super yachts

  • Launching a catering or food business

  • Specializing in pastry, baking, or food styling

Do You Need Matric to Become a Chef?

While a matric certificate is not mandatory for admission, it is beneficial for securing a place at this prestigious culinary school. The programme also includes internships in renowned restaurants and hotels, ensuring students gain valuable real-world experience in established business settings, before graduation.

Learn from One of South Africa’s Top Chefs

With small, hands-on classes, students at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine train directly under Chef Jackie Cameron, one of South Africa’s leading Chefs. Students develop the skills, confidence, and discipline necessary to excel in the demanding yet rewarding culinary industry. Excellence is a fundamental principle at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine, and students are expected to uphold high standards throughout their training.

Internationally Recognised Chef Certification

To date, 82 graduates have collectively earned 245 distinctions, nationally and internationally recognised, from City & Guilds, London (Learn more about City & Guilds, London).The school has since transitioned to the Highfield qualification, ensuring students receive the most up-to-date and relevant culinary training. (Learn more about Highfield Qualification).

All graduates earn internationally recognised certification, empowering them to pursue career opportunities anywhere in the world. This also presents an exciting opportunity for international students considering a culinary career - allowing them to experience life in South Africa, receive world-class culinary training, and return home with a globally respected qualification.

For international students, studying at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine is an incredible way to immerse in South Africa’s rich food culture while gaining practical, industry-relevant skills.

Study Culinary Arts in South Africa’s Beautiful KZN Midlands

Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine is situated in the breathtaking KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, offering students a tranquil and inspiring setting to hone their skills. Learn more about the region: Midlands Meander.

Your Culinary Journey Starts Here

If you're ready to turn your passion for food into a thriving career, Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine is your gateway to success. Take the first step towards becoming a world-class Chef today!

If you want to become a great chef, you have to work with great chefs.
— Gordon Ramsay