Pre-Apprenticeship in Cooking Fundamentals with Indigenous Foodways

Launch your future in the culinary sector with the PreApprenticeship in Cooking Fundamentals with Indigenous Foodways program—open to both Indigenous and nonIndigenous learners who are ready to build skills, gain confidence, and explore meaningful career pathways in the kitchen.

Cooks are in demand across every area of the food industry—from restaurants and hotels to long-term care, catering, institutional kitchens, and community-based food programs. They prepare a wide range of dishes, follow safety and quality standards, manage kitchen tasks, and contribute to the cultural and culinary experiences of the people they serve.

Over 26 weeks, you’ll develop the entry-level cooking and kitchen-ready skills needed to begin your path toward a Cook (415A) apprenticeship. Each week blends hands-on culinary training with supportive in-class learning—about 30 hours total—so you start building practical experience from day one.

A unique feature of this program is the integration of Indigenous Foodways, giving you the opportunity to learn about Indigenous ingredients, teachings, and culinary traditions that shape food preparation and community connection across many cultures.

To broaden your opportunities and strengthen your employability, you’ll also gain training in meatcutting, assistant cook techniques, safety certifications, and workplace readiness skills, providing a strong foundation for the culinary workforce.

Your learning journey concludes with an eight-week work placement, where you’ll apply your new skills in a real kitchen, gain industry experience, and build professional connections that can launch your career.

This program has been made possible with the support of the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development. 

Program benefits to eligible applicants include:

• Tuition-Free training
• Small classes for personalized learning
• Eight-week paid work placement
• All books, shoes, uniforms and supplies are included
• Knife kit provided upon successful completion of in-class courses (for use during work placement)
• Financial supports are available for those who qualify
• Program delivered through a blend of in-person and online classes (reliable internet and computer access required)

Additional certifications applicants may earn:  

• Standard First Aid
• FoodSafe
• WHMIS
• Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)

Admission Requirements

• All participants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, a minimum of 16 years of age, and legally entitled to work in Ontario  
• Completed a high school diploma/GED or equivalent, and provide proof by:
  • Sending a copy of the domestic transcript directly to the Office of the Registrar (admissions@snpolytechnic.com)
  • All educational documents submitted from a country other than Canada and the US must be accompanied by an assessment from either ICAS (International Credential Assessment Services) or WES (World Education Services). Other official documentation must be sent directly to the Office of the Registrar (admissions@snpolytechnic.com) from the issuing institution (high school, post-secondary institution, or governmental organization)
• No longer a high-school student at the start of the program
• Proof of Social Insurance Number and photo identification (no later than the start of the program)
• Be willing and able to commit to a full-time in-person program (approx. 30 hrs/wk) 

Admission procedures

• Applicants must complete the SNP Skilled Trades Admission Application  
  • SNP can only begin your assessment for admission when all required documentation is received.
• Applicants must complete the program questionnaire.

This program has limited seats available. Acceptance is based on meeting the above admission requirements. First consideration will be given to applicants most likely to meet the program objectives and who are pursuing an apprenticeship in the trade.

Program requirements

• Applicants should demonstrate values of Ga’nigohi:yo/Kanikoriio (Respect and the Good Mind) and meet industry expectations for their trade, which includes attention to attendance and punctuality.
  • The program includes in-class and work placements. Work experience is a collaborative process; students must actively search and participate with SNP support throughout the placement process.
  • Applicants must acknowledge that this program includes an off-site 8-week paid work placement that is full-time (35-40 hrs/week) with restrictive start/end dates.
  • Some placement locations may be outside of the region and require afternoon or evening shifts.   Access to reliable transportation is recommended and may increase chances of securing placement.
• Applicants are advised that the physical and mental demands of this program reflect industry requirements (e.g. lifting, carrying, troubleshooting, etc.).