Chef Career Myths Explained: What It’s Really Like to Study at a Chef School in South Africa

Thinking of becoming a chef? The culinary industry is full of myths; from angry chefs to outdated stereotypes about education and lifestyle. Discover the truth about what it’s really like to study at a professional chef school in South Africa, and why seeing the reality firsthand can change everything.

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Valentine's Day Burger & Drive in Movie Evening

Join us for a romantic drive in dinner this Valentine’s Day. Arrival at 18h00, movie starts at 19H00. Meal includes: Chicken OR Beef Gourmet Burger, Potato Crisps + Hot Fudge Ice-Cream Sundae with Cinnamon Banana. Cost: R400 per person. Book soon, limited spaces available.

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Sundowners with Vineyard Friends - Wednesday 11 February 2026

Join us on Wednesday 11 February at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine for sundowners with a difference! We will be showcasing Vineyard Friends Wines by Douglas Green and our students will pair delicious tastings for the various cultivars presented.

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Can I Become a Chef Without a Matric Certificate?

Can you become a chef without matric?

Yes — and for the right candidate, passion, commitment, and talent can matter just as much as formal qualifications. At Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, aspiring chefs are assessed on their potential, work ethic, and love for food, not only their academic results. With small class sizes, hands-on mentorship, an internationally recognised chef course, and a 100% placement guarantee, this is a serious culinary school for students (and parents) looking for real career outcomes — matric certificate or not.

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Securing a Position in South Africa’s Culinary Industry

South Africa’s culinary industry is thriving with opportunities—from restaurants and hotels to lodges and boutique cafés. Discover what it takes to secure a chef position, the skills employers value most, and how Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine’s guaranteed work placement helps graduates launch confident culinary careers.

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Is an 18-Month Chef Course Worth It?

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.

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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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Sundowners with Fryer's Cove Wine - Wednesday 5 November 2025

Join us on Wednesday 5 November at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine for a Sundowner With A Difference! We'll be showcasing the wines of Fryer’s Cove Wine and our students will pair tastings for the various cultivars presented.

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Join Us for High Tea - Saturday 1 November 2025

Experience an elegant afternoon of indulgence on Saturday 1 November 2025 as our students present their final pastry assessments; a showcase of creativity, precision, and passion. Enjoy beautifully crafted sweet and savoury delights, perfectly paired with a glass of Kleine Zalze Bubbles and a comforting cup of Terbodore Coffee or tea.

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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.

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