Thinking about chef school in South Africa? Discover why an 18-month chef course at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine is a powerful investment in real kitchen skills, industry experience and a sustainable culinary career.

Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine Graduation 2025: A Celebration of Excellence

The KwaZulu-Natal Midlands lit up this July as the Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine (JCSFW) celebrated the graduation of its 18-month and three-year culinary cohorts. Families, industry partners, and the culinary heavyweight, Chef Liam Tomlin, joined Chef Jackie Cameron and her team to applaud a year of remarkable achievement, real-world growth, and world-class standards.

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Culinary School vs Learning On The Job

Choosing between culinary school and learning on the job? This post weighs both paths, and shows why the Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine blends them for the best start: an 18-month programme with 12 months of fundamentals plus industry placement. We also touch on creativity, professionalism, and financing support via Student Hero.

Do You Know What to Expect from a Career in the Culinary Industry?

Considering a career in the culinary industry? Award-winning chef Jackie Cameron shares insights into the rewards and challenges of becoming a professional chef. From creative expression and global opportunities to the resilience required in fast-paced kitchens, discover what it truly takes to thrive in the world of food.

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Celebrating Culinary Excellence and Global Impact

Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine are thrilled and proud to announce that our esteemed alumna, Lihle Mahambehlala, has received the prestigious Young Chef’s Grant to attend the renowned Oxford Food Symposium at St. Catherine’s College, Oxford.

Introducing Bianca Hillermann - Class of 2025

“After deciding that I wanted to pursue culinary training, I did lots of research on the various institutions in South Africa. As soon as I came across Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine, I immediately felt it would be the best option for me because of the small classes, as well as Chef Jackie's approach to the course.” - Bianca Hillermann

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Introducing Holly King - Class of 2025

“I have always had a passion for food. Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine was the perfect place for me because the school accepts only 15 students, and I work well in smaller groups.” - Holly King

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Introducing Joshua Fitzroy - Class of 2025

“I intend on becoming a chef, and Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine is the best way to fulfil this desire. I simply want to cook a soufflé; the rest will become my life as I develop in the process.” - Joshua Fitzroy

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Introducing Langelihle Mnikathi - Class of 2025

“I enrolled at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine in pursuit of a childhood dream of becoming a qualified Chef. When I heard about Chef Jackie Cameron’s culinary school during a career day, held at my high school, I knew that I had to make this school my next home.” - Langelihle Mnikathi

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Introducing Julia Moore - Class of 2025

“I wanted to enrol at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine because of the immaculate standards that were set by Chef. Chef has made such an impactful name for herself in the culinary industry - which really inspired me.” - Julia Moore

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