The Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) Programme for Chefs sponsored by Department of Tourism – Graduation Ceremony on 5 March 2025 at Capital Hotel School (CHS) by Ronél Bezuidenhout MD CHS
We welcomed 24 chefs into a new chapter of their careers – chefs who have proven their passion, determination, and skill through countless hours of hard work and perseverance.
These graduates come from all corners of our industry, each one having worked for a minimum of three years practicing their culinary skills in the industry’s kitchens, perfecting their craft i.e. Feedem, Genade Shoppie, 3@Marion Guesthouse, Sun International, CSIR Convention Centre, ANEW Hatfield and Centurion, Capsicum, Steyns Culinary School, CTIA, Bidvest Catering Services, The Pretoria Hotel, Tashas Menlyn Maine, Kievits Kroon Gauteng Wine Estate, City Lodge OR Tambo, Jem Exclusive Catering, Hotel 224.
They were chosen from many applicants to be part of the prestigious skills training programme, funded by The Department of Tourism and delivered by the Capital Hotel School. The QCTO Occupational Certificate Chef (NQF 5) culminating in a Trade Test was completed in a record time of 6 months to comply with the Department’s financial yearend. These tight deadlines caused our Project Manager, Suzanne Crozier and our 3 Chefs (all 4 qualified RED Seal achievers) many sleepless nights and grey hairs.
Out of many hopefuls, these chefs could eventually receive credit and recognition for the many years they loyally served our industry.
The journey has not been an easy one. It began with the completion of a Portfolio of Evidence – a rigorous process where each of these chefs provided both written and visual proof of their knowledge and practical experience followed by a theory test and a practical exam. This was just the beginning.
Once the accredited assessors and moderators confirmed their readiness, the next step was the Trade Test Examination – the final challenge to qualify for the sought-after RED SEAL, the formal qualification that acknowledges them as true professionals in their craft.
The Trade Test itself was an intense experience, including a gruelling two-hour theory exam followed by six hours of non-stop, high-pressure cooking under the watchful eye of examiners.
The path was long and challenging, filled with moments of doubt and triumph, tears and smiles, rewrites and gap closure sessions up to graduation day to be awarded with a national qualification that many aspire to, but few achieve.
The significance of this qualification cannot be overstated. The RED SEAL artisan qualification opens doors to countless opportunities, promotions, and recognition – opportunities that, for many of these chefs, may have seemed out of reach without the financial and emotional support of The Department of Tourism.
This programme, which has given them the tools to succeed, is an investment not just in them, but in the future of the entire culinary industry. And for that, we are truly grateful.
Capital Hotel School was privileged to complete the journey with them and trust they will share the knowledge they have gained generously with others and aspire to be mentors, passing on the wisdom they have acquired. And perhaps, in time, they will consider paying it forward, encouraging their establishments to choose and support only one person at their workplace, each year to receive the same opportunity that was given to them.
The journey doesn’t end here – in fact, it is only just beginning. Some candidates now graduates, have already been promoted from Chef de Partie to Sous Chef and from Sous Chef to Executive Chef! Well done; certainly worth all the sweat and tears.
Should you need information on the ARPL process for the Occupational Certificate Chef and Trade Test and ARPL Occupational Certificate Cook (NQF 4), a good starting point, or for the following Occupational Certificates; Kitchen Hand NQF 3, Food Handler NQF2 contact Suzanne Crozier suzanne@capitalhotelschool.co.za
Front from the left: Unathi Ngangaza, Suzanne Crozier, Ronel Bezuidenhout, Thanda Madlala, Ndhuma Makamu, Belinda Molaudzi, Mmapule Maluleke, Rooi Hobyani, Vincent de Villiers, Jaen-Mari Breytenbach.
Second row from the left: Anthocus Mkhonto, Ntsundeni Chauke, Andrea Hlongwane, Lungile Maphumulo, Ruewelyn Munsamy, Khobi Mhlanga, Tshepo Letswele, Claire du Plooy, Andile Magwaza.
Third row from the left: Mohau Seiphomo, Joseph Maimane, Daniel Moselanyane, Jonas Legae, Zandile Nkosi, Nobuhle Malunga, Neliswe Mchunu.
Back row from the left: Tebatjo Maja, Devandra Narismulu, Hanroe Erasmus, Bongani Lekome, Frans Malete, Sihle Soginga.