tiwšɛmawtxʷ (Powell River) Culinary

1-Year Certificate Program

Do you have a passion for cooking and eating food?  Consider joining the Culinary Institute of Vancouver Island and train to become a professional cook.

Here's what you will learn:

  • Preparation of meat, poultry, soup, salads, sauces, seafood, fruit and desserts
  • Set up and operation of a restaurant and café providing lunch service to live customers
  • Catering special events

Students rotate through the Birch Tree Café and Bistro; our new training facility and restaurant located in downtown Powell River.

As part of the program, students will acquire the following certificates:

  • WHMIS 2015
  • Occupational First Aid, Level 1
  • Foodsafe, Level 1
  • SuperHost Foundations of Service Quality
  • Kitchen Safety and Fire Extinguisher
  • Serving It Right

Regular attendance and a minimum average of 70% in each of the practical and theory portions of the program are required to pass.

Classes are in session 4 days per week, Tuesday-Friday, 8 am - 3:30 pm. Students should be aware that the schedule is flexible as there are evening, weekend and early morning events.

Admission Requirements

  • Application form
    (No application deadline date, however apply early as space is limited)
  • Grade 12 or provincial equivalent, or mature student status
  • If proof of completion of Grade 12 is not submitted, a $20 Assessment Test will be required (study materials are available)
  • Minimum 17 years of age
  • Interview

Simon Lazarus

Simon has come a long way after graduating from VIU; he immediately began working with Hilton International in Toronto then overseas with the Hilton Hotels in their fine dining establishments.  He took advantage of the in-house training programs that Hilton offered to its employees.  He has had the opportunity to work in Switzerland, London, Bahamas, Amsterdam and the Middle East.

Read more about Simon's experience