ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in Food Safety Supervision for Catering
Maintaining high standards of food safety is a core responsibility in every catering operation. Whether it’s a busy restaurant, a school canteen, or an event catering service, food safety supervision is essential to protect consumers and meet regulatory expectations. The ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in Food Safety Supervision for Catering is a foundational qualification designed to introduce learners to key food hygiene and safety principles relevant to the catering industry.
This Level 1 Award focuses on helping learners understand their role in supporting food safety within catering environments. The course delivers an introduction to food hygiene, food safety hazards, personal hygiene, safe storage, and cleaning practices. Learners will gain awareness of the responsibilities associated with supervising basic food handling tasks and the importance of promoting a hygienic working environment.
The course is especially relevant for those new to catering or those who support others in the preparation, handling, and serving of food. It reinforces the need for clear communication, cleanliness, and adherence to safety protocols that prevent contamination and foodborne illness.
Learners will finish the course with a working understanding of the importance of personal and workplace hygiene, how to identify basic hazards, and how to support food safety procedures in line with legal and organisational requirements. The qualification encourages a proactive approach to food safety and prepares learners to work responsibly in team-based catering operations.
Even at a basic level, food safety supervision has a direct impact on public health and business reputation. Mistakes in handling or preparation can lead to serious consequences. By completing this Level 1 Award, learners take the first important step in safeguarding the food chain and meeting workplace expectations. It also serves as a foundation for progressing to more advanced food safety training, such as Level 2 or Level 3 qualifications in food safety supervision for catering.
The ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in Food Safety Supervision for Catering is more than just an introductory course; it is a professional stepping stone towards responsible food handling and safer catering environments.
Level 1 Award in Food Safety Supervision for Catering
To enroll in the ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in Food Safety Supervision for Catering, learners must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum Age: Learners must be at least 16 years old at the time of enrolment. This ensures they have the maturity to understand basic food safety responsibilities and workplace expectations.
- Educational Background: There are no formal academic qualifications required. However, learners should possess basic literacy skills to follow course content, complete written tasks, and understand key terminology.
- Experience: Prior experience in a catering or food handling role is not required. The course is designed to support learners who are new to the catering industry or those looking to formalise their knowledge of food safety supervision at a basic level.
These requirements make the qualification suitable for entry-level roles and provide a strong foundation for future progression in the food safety or catering sector.
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in Food Safety Supervision for Catering, consists of 3 mandatory units.
- Introduction to Food Safety Principles and the Role of Supervisors in Catering
- Identifying Basic Food Safety Hazards and Essential Control Measures
- Personal Hygiene, Workplace Cleanliness, and Safe Food Handling Practices
Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit:
Introduction to Food Safety Principles and the Role of Supervisors in Catering
- Understand the basic principles and importance of food safety in catering
- Recognise the role and responsibilities of supervisors in maintaining hygiene standards
- Identify common causes and consequences of foodborne illness in catering settings
Identifying Basic Food Safety Hazards and Essential Control Measures
- Identify common food safety hazards in catering environments
- Understand the sources and risks of microbiological, chemical, and physical contamination
- Apply basic control measures to minimise hazards and ensure food safety
Personal Hygiene, Workplace Cleanliness, and Safe Food Handling Practices
- Demonstrate knowledge of personal hygiene requirements for food handlers
- Understand the importance of cleanliness and sanitation in catering operations
- Apply safe food handling techniques to reduce the risk of contamination and spoilage
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in Food Safety Supervision for Catering equips learners with the essential knowledge and confidence to support food hygiene standards in catering operations. As food safety is a legal and operational priority in the hospitality and food service industries, this qualification serves as a strong entry point for individuals beginning their careers in food handling or supervisory roles.
With a foundational understanding of key food safety practices, learners are well-positioned to continue their professional development through more advanced qualifications. Progressing through higher levels of training enhances job performance, supports regulatory compliance, and opens doors to increased responsibility and leadership opportunities in catering environments.
Progression Pathways:
- ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in Food Safety Supervision for Catering
- ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in Food Safety Manufacturing or Retail (for industry cross-over)
- Entry-level supervisory roles in commercial kitchens, cafes, and food service operations
- Further training in HACCP-based food safety management systems
- Career development towards kitchen supervisor, food hygiene coordinator, or team leader roles
This course provides the foundation for a lifelong career in the catering and food service sectors, supporting both personal growth and workplace excellence in food safety.