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Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Get Recognised For Your Experience To Gain A Level 4 Certificate In Cookery

What Is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows you to gain a New Zealand Certificate in Cookery Level 4 by getting credited for the skills and knowledge you've already acquired through work experience and training rather than going through a traditional study programme.

The RPL process is designed for culinary professionals like you who are keen to gain a certificate to recognise your practical experience and translate that into a qualification to advance career options. 

RPL Assessment for Culinary Excellence

Your previous education, experience and qualifications will be assessed by one of our highly-qualified chef assessors who will gather evidence and assess you in the following:

Culinary theory


Practical knowledge, skills & experience


Culinary standards


 Work place appraisals


 Training records


 Demonstrated abilities


Detailed documented evidence of skills, training and work experience

Why Get Qualified Through RPL? 

Leverage your experience to get certified faster than studying

Boost your career prospects and mobility

Gain a nationally recognised Level 4 qualification

 Open doors to higher roles and responsibilities

Formalise your practical skills for career advancement

What our students say about this course?

"I would recommend International Culinary Studio and the RPL process for the New Zealand Certificate in Cookery. The process itself is simple and it is a great refresher on background knowledge and skills building. My chef instructor was very approachable and helpful with my exam prep and no question was too silly. Having already had 25 years industry and hospitality experience this has just helped cement my skills and it is fantastic to have the ‘piece of paper’!"

RPL NZQA Level 4

Am I Eligible? 

Our RPL programme is open to culinary professionals based in New Zealand with a minimum of 2 years of industry experience. 

  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Currently work in a commercial kitchen
  • Be able to read and communicate in English – all communication, reading material and final exams will be in English
  • Have access to the internet, e-mail (with a valid e-mail address), a scanner, a printer and a digital photographic device
  • Have access to a reasonably well-equipped kitchen
  • Be computer literate with the ability to upload and download documents and photographs/video clips
  • Be able to travel to the Christchurch examination centre to sit your final exam/s which will be two multiple choice theory exams and one 3 course practical exam

Get Certified Today!

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Enquiry 

Full Name*
Phone*
How many years of professional kitchen experience do you currently have? (this can include experience outside of NZ)*
Why do you want to gain the Level 4 Certificate in Cookery?*
Please fill all the required fields!
Please accept terms and conditions to proceed
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