Our students, in their own words

"I look forward to better job opportunities now I have my New Zealand Certificate in Cookery Level 4. Online worked well for me as I still needed to work. Chef Helen was only a phone call away, and the whole team was helpful and friendly."

"I would recommend ICS to people currently working in hospitality who'd like to gain a qualification. I genuinely feel I've learnt a lot. The practical exam was a really exciting experience and I'm proud of how I did."

"I chose to study with ICS because it was online and the flexibility fit around my lifestyle. My Chef Instructor was very supportive and reassuring. I think my qualification will give me the freedom to go for the job I'd like — and actually get it."

"This was a great way for me to study online as it enabled me to study and work at the same time. Chef Helen does a great job — I could text or call and she'd answer any questions. I look forward to using this to train other staff and create food on a higher level."

"Working full-time as head chef for a pizza restaurant, I was keen to study the Level 4. Blended learning gave me the chance to study while still working. Chef Helen was always there to answer my questions and the practical assignments were challenging but assessed fairly."

"I chose ICS because it suited my lifestyle — I have a full-time job, two children and a husband. I started as a Kitchen Hand 20 years ago. It has always been my dream to be called Chef, and with this qualification I've earned that right."

"I studied the Level 4 from home, giving me flexibility to work around my children and not worry about travel as I live rurally. I've enjoyed learning new techniques and my knife skills — the feedback from my Chef Instructor was very useful and my confidence has greatly increased."

"I have always wanted to be a chef but never thought I could. When I started the course, my life changed. My chef instructor was brilliant. I could fit my course around my family. It has changed me — I have a new confidence in myself. If I can do this, anyone can."

"After completing the Level 4 through RPL I now look forward to studying Level 5. Although it was a challenge to get my application done while working long hours, my chef assessor communicated well and the instructions were easy to follow. I'd absolutely recommend ICS."

"I chose ICS for my RPL because the staff and chefs are so helpful. I was guided so well on how to go ahead with my Level 4 certificate. My Chef Assessor was really nice and got back to me quickly. Having this qualification will help me progress in my workplace."

"When looking at RPL of the New Zealand Certificate in Cookery I chose ICS as they had a good reputation. The Chef Assessor working through my evidence was awesome and so helpful. They made it easy to get through the process while still working."

"I had a Diploma in Commercial Cookery and 15 years' experience and wanted a New Zealand recognised qualification. The RPL process with ICS was fantastic — clear, easy, and the staff were helpful. It was a great achievement in a short time!"

"Having been a chef in Fiji for 9 years before moving to New Zealand and becoming a head chef here, I'd recommend ICS for RPL of the Level 4. A simple process, the learner management system was easy to use, and the staff and Chef Instructor were always helpful."

"I wanted my culinary experience recognised, so applied for the Level 4 through RPL. I fit my application and exams around my work with a bit of organisation. Chef Helen gave me feedback throughout and answered any questions. I am proud to be a chef."

"I have no hesitation recommending the ICS course to my employees. It has two features key to the industry: accessibility and flexibility. It would be great to see more students take advantage of these courses."

"Having been in hospitality over 20 years, I acknowledge the online teaching model is of real value to the industry. Students are motivated when they get to the workplace and can learn without leaving the workplace for extended periods."

"I've found the student incredibly motivated, courteous and mature. She's brought new skills and recipes and gained a real understanding of the industry. The extended industry placement is an asset to the course and to prospective employers alike."

"We've had several chefs enrol with ICS to complete their training. They're experts in their field — the learning materials and approach are exceptional. The main benefit is being able to keep working while they study, sharing their knowledge with the team."

"I have found my employee incredibly motivated by this course. I'd recommend my employees study with ICS as a way of increasing their skills. It's fantastic for those with lots of motivation, and gives them a globally recognised qualification."

"Great life skills and career options at a fraction of the price compared to other chef schools. What's amazing for me is that the qualifications are NZQA recognised."