The Chef Pathaway.
“One provider, one certificate, one career.“
Get internationally recognised qualifications, hands-on training and job placement support to work in the hospitality industry onshore or at sea.
Accreditations: QCTO, Highfield, STCW • Internationally Recognised • Technical Trades Track
Chef Pathway – Package
Your Journey. Your Growth. Your Future at Sea
Why This Career?
Industry Gap
South Africa’s culinary sector is expanding rapidly, so we still need more chefs.
The Crossover Advantage
You don’t just get a culinary certificate. You get an internationally recognised maritime safety qualification.
The Lifestyle
Travel the world while doing what you love, earn in hard currency, no university debt, and a clear path from Commis to Executive Chef.
Security
This is a recession-resistant, regulation-driven career with global demand.
Work.
Travel.
Earn.
Grow.
Your Adventure Starts Here.
Included in this career package
The training required by various industries and ships can vary depending on the type of ship, the position you’re applying for, and the company’s specific requirements. Make sure you enrol for the correct courses:
We recommend first checking with your recruitment agent or the company to confirm exactly which STCW certificates are required for your role. This will help ensure that you complete the appropriate training and avoid paying for any courses that may not be necessary.
From training to your first pay-cheque at sea. We guide you every step of the way.
Course 1
Highfield Level 3 Diploma for Professional Chefs (RQF) (12 Months)
Course 2
Highfield Level 2 Award in Food Safety for Catering (RQF)– (1 Day)
Course 3
Highfield Level 2 Award in HACCP for Catering (RQF) – (1 Day)
Course 4
Highfield Level 2 Award in Food Allergen Awareness and Control in Catering (RQF) – (1 Day)
Is this for me ?
Entry Requirements:
- Matric (Grade 12)
- Must be 18 years or older
A recognised trade qualification in plumbing, electrical, carpentry or a related trade, or relevant practical work experience.
Please note: some ships and employers require crew members to be 21 years or older.
Additional Requirements:
You must meet the required medical fitness standards for the programme and intended career pathway. Be comfortable working in small or confined kitchen spaces. Be prepared to work irregular or flexible hours, as maritime catering can involve different working schedules.
Where can I work ?
- Café, Restaurants, Kitchens across the world.
- Galley Assistant / Commis Chef
- Private yacht cook (Mediterranean / Caribbean / South Pacific)
What Will My Training Look Like ?
You’ll receive practical, hands-on training in a controlled training galley with qualified maritime chefs. You’ll learn how to:
- Plan and manage food supplies in limited spaces.
- Prepare menus suitable for international crews.
- Apply food safety and hygiene practices.
- Understand and apply HACCP principles.
- Work safely and efficiently in a maritime kitchen environment.
The training is designed to help you develop the practical skills and knowledge needed to work confidently in maritime catering.
Cruise Ship Technical Career Ladder
Your Journey. Your Growth. Your Future at Sea
Additional Services
- Logbook guidance & completion tracking
- CV & video resume workshop tailored to recruitment
- Interview simulation with management standards
- Start building your Photo portfolio of dishes prepared, plating examples
- Recruitment partner introductions
- Alumni network access
- Lunch during training days
- Access to refresher training as your career progresses
Useful Tips
- Work hard — galley life is demanding but deeply rewarding
- Be early — discipline at sea starts on day one of training
- Understand project management — provisioning, budgeting, and dietary planning are core skills
Invest in your Future
Payment Options
- Option #1 - Full upfront booking and payment – You Save as above.
- Option #2 - We can structure a deposit + Monthly installments; some discount applies.
- Option #3 - We can structure a deposit + Quarterly installments; some discount applies.
Loan Calculator
Ready to Launch
Take your first step towards your international career. Contact us and a career consultant will get back to you. All inquiries are responded to during regular business hours (Mon-Fri).
Your contact information is only used for the purpose intended and in accordance with our privacy policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this training safe for my son or daughter?
Safety is an important part of maritime training. Students learn essential areas such as personal survival, fire prevention and firefighting, first aid and security awareness, depending on the programme. Maritime workplaces also operate under strict safety and regulatory requirements.
What if they don’t get a job after completing the programme?
Completing a qualification or training programme does not guarantee employment. However, the skills gained can prepare students for opportunities in maritime catering as well as land-based hospitality. Career Guidance can also assist students with understanding career pathways and preparing for employment opportunities.
Why not just go to culinary school?
This programme is designed specifically for students interested in maritime catering and hospitality. It focuses on practical skills and knowledge relevant to working in maritime environments, while also developing skills that can be useful in land-based hospitality.
Can they work locally too?
Yes. Depending on their qualifications, skills and experience, graduates can explore opportunities in hotels, restaurants, catering companies, lodges and other hospitality environments.
Is the training recognised overseas?
Recognition depends on the specific qualification, certification, employer and country. Where applicable, SSTG will explain which certifications and approvals apply to your chosen programme and where they may be used.
What about accommodation during training?
Accommodation is not necessarily included in the course fee. However, SSTG can provide information about nearby accommodation options where available. Please speak to our team when planning your training.
Package – Terms & Conditions
- Up-front payment is required to qualify for the saving.
- Once courses are booked, our refund policy applies.
- You have six months from the date of payment/booking to complete the courses included in the promotion.
- Courses can be booked and completed at any time during your 6-month validity period; consecutive course bookings are not required.
- Contact our Career Guidance if you are unsure of anything.