What is The Applied Ability Award?

Under the chairmanship of Prue Leith OBE the “Triple A’ qualification was Initiated and continues to be delivered by the British Food Trust

Developed by leading senior chefs from – The Craft Guild of Chefs; The British Culinary Federation; The Federation of Scottish Chefs; The Welsh Culinary Association; The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts . The governing body for the Applied Ability Awards is the AAA National Commitee which comprises of representatives from the principal chef’s organisations in the UK

An independent qualification designed and delivered by the industry, for the industry in order to develop and promote Craft Cuisine skills. Culminating in a one-day practical exam, the process provides a common syllabus and independent appraisal for work-based apprenticeships. The apprenticeship can be either informal and delivered entirely in-house or formal in the shape of the BTEC Apprenticeship in Craft Cuisine. The latter contains a number of learning elements, the most important being the practical component – the Diploma in Craft Cuisine – which culminates in the Triple A exam

Who is the Triple A for?

Absolutely anyone who wishes to develop their skils in Craft Cuisine as well as be recognized by a certified qualification. The Triple A can be acheived at two levels; AAA Foundation Chef Certificate for those who can demonstrate standards expected of professional KItchen & Larder Chef working under supervision; and AAA Chef Certificate where the standard required is that of an unsupervised professional Kitchen & Larder Chef

How can I take part?

Key to success of each candidate is the support of an In House Mentor. This might be the Head Chef or immediate boss of the learner. Mentor and candidate complete together a Skills Scan & Action Plan and email to Triple A Manager Jill Matthews

This website contains all the information needed to participate by either route, and also provides support for those preparing for the exam. This includes demonstration videos of key culinary skills  and access to practical knowledge tests at all levels

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There are no common and consistent training standards that have the confidence of industry, and none at all that are set and maintained by the profession itself – that’s the opportunity that the Triple A now provides. – Martyn Nail, Executive Chef, Claridges – AAA Examiner & Mentor

The Triple A is about chefs taking charge in the battle for craft skills and setting the standards for trainees and trainers alike. As employers are dependent on those skills we need to give them our wholehearted support and participate. – Bob Cotton, former Chief Executive, British Hospitality Association

If you would like more information, head to the Applied Ability Awards website

with   

are pleased to announce a new and unique qualification for the craft-led professional chef, the BTEC APPRENTICESHIP IN CRAFT CUISINE endorsed by People 1st ~ approved by Ofqual ~ regulated by the Skills Funding Agency ~ fully fundable in England and Wales.