THE KITCHEN SCHOOL

Cook Up a Fresh Start!

Make a Career in Cooking!

Get ServSafe Certified!

The Kitchen School is an intensive 12-week job training program for low-income adults covering the basics of safe food handling and culinary arts.

Based at the Camp Curtin Branch of the YMCA in Harrisburg, PA, each course provides eligible candidates with the knowledge and training needed for a career in the food service industry.

• Learn and practice basic cooking theory with qualified hands-on instruction.
• Receive industry standard ServSafe certification.
• Prepare meals for hundreds of children in Kids Cafe after-school programs.
• Take Life Skills classes on communication, teamwork and career planning.
• Develop a sustainable career in the food service industry.

Classes are held Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.  Classes are kept small to maximize personal instruction. Terms are held four times a year beginning:

•  March 18, 2008


•  June 17, 2008

12 WEEK COURSE GUIDE

During the course you will receive classroom and hands-on training and examination for the nationally recognized ServSafe certification. The curriculum provides an in-depth training in safe food handling as well as fundamentals in culinary arts, knife skills, butchery, bulk production and food costing. The program also features weekly life skills classes on goal setting, financial management, career planning, resume writing and interviewing. In the final two weeks, you will be placed in an internship in your chosen food service area.  The following is an overview of the 12 week course:

Week 1 -   Kitchen Safety & Production

Week 2 -   Sanitation and Culinary Terms

Week 3 -   Sauces, Soups & Reduction

Week 4 -   Contamination Risks, Culinary Review

Week 5 -   Storage, Advanced Soups & Stews

Week 6 -   Entree Production, Broiling & Sautés

Week 7 -   Plate Design, Catering & Costs

Week 8 -   Vegetables & Hors d`Oeuvres

Week 9 -   Baking, Cakes & Syrups

Week 10 -   Kitchen Skills & ServSafe Exam

Weeks 11-12 -   Internship & Graduation

Train under the Kitchen School’s certified executive chef and instructor, Michael DeMarco, with assistance from Channels staff and guest instruction from other local chefs. Life Skills courses are taught by Program Coordinator Maureen Romanoski.

KITCHEN SCHOOL ALUMNI SUCCEED

Over 90% of Kitchen School graduates take a job in their field within two weeks of graduation with an average starting salary over $9.00/hour. Whether a student is new or experienced in the hospitality industry, the program boosts the earning potential and self-sufficiency of each graduate. Students have been placed at: Appalachian Brewing Company, Boston Culinary, Stock's on 2nd, Applebee’s, Commonwealth Caterers, Crowne Plaza Hotel, GIANT Center, Hilton Harrisburg, Jewish Home of Greater Harrisburg, Karns Quality Foods and more!

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

If you or someone you know qualifies for public assistance and are ready to step forward in your career, contact the Kitchen School at (717) 612-1300 or with the form below:

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