Baking Foundation (High School)

Diploma: Certificate

Location: Downtown

Baking student cutting cake.

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Overview

Learn the foundations of professional baking and earn your apprenticeship Level 1 while still in high school.

Tuition $2,513
Credential Certificate
Length 6 months
Hours Full-time
Delivery Class-based
Campus Downtown

What to expect

The Baking Foundation Certificate Program is designed to meet the training needs of industry. The program content is monitored by a Program Advisory Committee which recommends changes to material based on industry needs.

The program is delivered in professional baking labs and classroom settings. Student products are sold in the VCC Bakeshop to enrich their practical and professional skills. Classroom instruction is designed for students to develop the theoretical knowledge and professional skills required for success in the baking industry, with a maximum of 30 pages of reading per week.

The program design is based on a learner-centered and experiential approach whereby students learn through experience in a professional setting. Active learning and participation are emphasized to promote the development of knowledge, skills, and the mindset required for success in the food industry. Professional skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, reflective practice, and interpersonal communication are emphasized throughout the program.

This program is ideal for our Youth Train in Trades program. Upon completion of this program they can enter the baking industry in an entry level position. Upon completing high school, students can return to the program  to complete the pastry or artisan certificate.

Job entry skills are taught in the main areas of the baking industry:

  • General Baking
  • Yeast Products
  • Cakes and Pastries

What you will learn

  • Apply basic skills and knowledge in baking & pastry to the production of a variety of basic breads and pastries in a professional baking environment.
  • Evaluate basic breads and pastries for consistency and accuracy in yield, flavour, texture, and overall appearance according to product specifications and standards.
  • Identify and describe the principles of nutrition relating to basic breads and pastries.
  • Adhere to industry health, safety and employment standards in the preparation, handling, and storage of food and equipment.
  • Apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for success and sustainable professional practice in basic baking & pastry.
  • Reflect on performance and practice to enhance professional skills needed to enter and advance in the baking industry.

Program duration and maximum time for completion

The program is 24 weeks. Students must complete the credential within 3 years. 

Admission requirements

Program-specific

Learn more about VCC's academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.

Recommended considerations

  • Basic computer and word processing skills
  • Organizational and time management skills
  • Enjoys working independently and in a team
  • Physical condition and stamina to meet the demands of the program, including good motor skills and hand-eye coordination
  • Creativity is an asset
  • Applicants must be able to physically handle all wheat, dairy, egg, and nut products and all associated by-products required to meet the program outcomes. Any other known food allergies must be disclosed.

Program availability

Not currently available.

Courses

Classes are generally held Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. (subject to change)
BAKG 1150Quick Breads & Cookies4
BAKG 1155Pies, Tarts, Puff Pastries4
BAKG 1160Basic Lean Yeast Doughs4
BAKG 1165Basic Rich Yeast Doughs4
BAKG 1170Basic Cakes & Pastries4
BAKG 1175Specialty Cakes & Pastries4
Total Credits24

This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Fees and costs

Tuition $2,513
Student union $73
College initiative $73
Campus resource $101
U-Pass $282 Get your student transit pass
Graduation $45
Other fees $278
Total $3,365

Books and Supplies

Textbooks or other supplies may be required for this program. Visit the VCC Bookstore for more information.

* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a non-refundable deposit.

Refund policies vary for domestic and international students. Review the applicable policy for eligibility, deadlines, and refund amounts.

Need help with tuition?

Explore your options for scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans.

Technical requirement

General technology requirements for online learning

How to apply

Youth applications (high school students in grade 10 and 11):

Applicants do not apply to VCC directly. Interested students, teachers and counsellors should contact the Career Program Coordinator or Administrator for their school district. Applicants are invited to meet with two members of baking department at VCC’s Downtown campus. This interview helps determine whether students are suitable for the program. Applicants should bring a resume and letter of reference from a school counsellor or teacher to the interview. Applicants are also required to attend an information session. Parents and teachers are welcome. After successful interview the school district contact and student complete the Youth in Trades Application and return to [email protected].

See the SkilledTradesBC Youth in Trades program website for more details.

Ready to apply?

Online

You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.

Mail

Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5

International students

Apply to VCC international programs online. Check the availability status for your desired program and intake before applying.

Contact us

Program information

<p>For questions about Youth Train in Trades programs email us at [email protected].</p>

Advising services

Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: [email protected]

Advising services for International students

[email protected]

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples who have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial. Learn about VCC’s commitment to decolonization and Indigenization.