Creative Cooking
What is the Creative Cooking course?
The Creative Cooking course at West Notts College is a practical adult evening course designed for anyone who enjoys cooking and wants to develop new culinary skills. Through hands-on sessions, you'll learn how to prepare a wide variety of delicious dishes from around the world, alongside breads, pastries and desserts.
Whether you're looking to expand your recipe collection, improve your cooking techniques or simply enjoy learning in a friendly environment, this course will help you build confidence in the kitchen while creating meals you can take home and enjoy.
You'll learn in small, supportive adult-only groups, guided by experienced tutors who are passionate about helping adult learners succeed. If you've been away from education for a while, don't worry. Our tutors will support you every step of the way.
After completing the course, you'll have the opportunity to progress onto the next available cooking course to continue developing your practical skills. Please note, that as a returning learner, this would then involve a cost per session. The course tutor will explain the options during the course, but feel free to get in touch should you require further information.
Who should study the Creative Cooking course?
This course is ideal for adults aged 19 and over who:
- Enjoy cooking and trying new recipes
- Want to learn dishes from around the world
- Would like to improve their baking and pastry skills
- Want to build confidence in the kitchen
- Enjoy practical, hands-on learning
- Are returning to education and want to study in a supportive adult learning environment.
No previous cooking experience is required.
What will you learn on the Creative Cooking course?
Throughout the course, you'll develop practical cooking skills while preparing a variety of dishes, including:
- International cuisine from around the world
- Homemade breads
- Pastries and baked goods
- Desserts and sweet treats
- Food preparation and cooking techniques
- Kitchen organisation and cooking confidence
- Presentation and finishing techniques
- Practical skills you can use to recreate recipes at home.
Every session is designed to help you build confidence while learning new recipes and techniques in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.
When does the Creative Cooking course start?
The course starts at various times throughout the year at West Notts College's Derby Road campus in Mansfield.
- Wednesday 9 September to Wednesday 16 December 2026 (13 weeks)
- Wednesday 6 January to Wednesday 24 March 2027 (11 weeks)
- Wednesday 14 April to Wednesday 23 June 2027 (10 weeks)
When do classes take place?
- Wednesdays, 5.30pm to 8.30pm
How much does the Creative Cooking course cost?
- FREE for eligible new learners*
- £7.50 per session for returning learners on a low income*
- £15 per session for returning learners on a higher income*
*Please contact us to check your eligibility for free or reduced-cost learning.
How is the Creative Cooking course delivered?
The course is delivered through practical, face-to-face evening classes at West Notts College's Derby Road campus in Mansfield.
Working in a professional training kitchen, you'll prepare a range of dishes under the guidance of experienced tutors. Each session combines demonstrations, practical cooking activities and individual support, giving you plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and confidence.
How do I apply for the Creative Cooking course?
Applying is easy. Simply click the Register your interest button in the Course Information section of this page. A member of our Adult Learning team will contact you with more information, confirm your eligibility and guide you through the enrolment process.
What should I bring to the Creative Cooking course?
To take part in practical cooking sessions, you'll need to bring the following items to each class:
- An apron to help protect your clothing
- A hat or suitable hair covering for food hygiene purposes
- A reusable bag and suitable food containers to safely transport your cooked dishes home.
Bringing these items to every session will help you get the most from the course and ensure you can safely take home the food you prepare.
Why study Creative Cooking at West Notts College?
- Learn practical cooking and baking skills from experienced tutors
- Prepare dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world
- Learn to make breads, pastries and desserts from scratch
- Gain confidence cooking in a professional kitchen
- Study in friendly, adult-only classes
- Progress onto further cooking courses
- FREE for eligible new learners
- Adult learning support and guidance
Starting something new can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. From careers guidance to mental health and wellbeing, we’re here to support you before you apply and throughout your time with us.
- Entry requirements
This course is only available to adults aged 19+.
- No previous experience or skills are required.
- Assessment
This is a non-accredited course therefore no formal assessment will take place.
- Careers
For advice and guidance on the careers this course may lead to, contact the our award-winning Careers and Employability team. Our fully qualified and experienced professional advisers specialise in providing high-quality, impartial careers advice and guidance, and can support you in exploring the career pathways this course or similar courses may offer.
- Studying Courses in the Community at West Notts College
Visit our courses in the community subject area page to explore the full range of courses available.
Disclaimer
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the website is correct, some details may be subject to change. West Nottinghamshire College reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.
*Subject to eligibility. Contact us for more information. Email