Registration is now available for North Island College鈥檚 free Prep Cook certificate program in Campbell River this December.

Previously offered in Port Alberni, this year鈥檚 certificate program starts Dec. 4 at NIC鈥檚 Campbell River campus.

NIC鈥檚 newest culinary instructor, Chef Avi Sternberg, will teach the course. Sternberg has trained in some of Japan鈥檚 most demanding kitchens.

鈥淚 am grateful to have the opportunity to share my experience and passion for food and the culinary profession with students, and guide each individual to develop their passion, skills, and knowledge into future careers,鈥� said Sternberg.

The four-month program gives students the basic safety, knowledge, and credentials to start a career in a busy commercial kitchens, restaurants, and resorts.

Students will learn to prepare a wide array of delectable staples, such as soups, stocks, sauces, vegetable dishes, salads, sandwiches, cookies, and quick breads. They will graduate with industry certifications in Occupational First Aid, Foodsafe and WHMIS.

On graduation, students will qualify to work as entry-level cooks and kitchen staff across North Vancouver Island or, keep learning and enroll in NIC鈥檚 Professional Cook (Culinary Arts) program and move towards their Red Seal certification.

To qualify, students must pass a Prep Cook Assessment and be eligible to work in Canada, have graduated high school and not be working full time.

For more information or to apply, visit www.nic.bc.ca/program/prep_cook_certificate, call 1-800-715-0914 or email questions@nic.bc.ca.