Frequently asked questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. I am allergic to certain foods/ I have a special dietary requirement. Will this cause a problem?

We try our best to accommodate for special dietary requirements. Please email us waitrosecookeryschool@waitrose.co.uk or call us on 020 73726108 if you would like to know whether your allergy can be accomodated on a particular course. It is the customer's responsibility to inform us of any dietary requirements at least 3 days before the course and this can be done at point of booking. Alternatively contact the school to let us know in advance so that, where possible, we can adjust the course accordingly for you.

2. What size are the classes - how many students are permitted on each course?

FINCHLEY ROAD: Class sizes are 24 in a class, with 2 people per workstation so you will be working in pairs. There will be a second chef on hand to assist and give you the coaching that you may need

SALISBURY: Class sizes are 12 in a class, with 2 people per workstation so you will be working in pairs. There will be a second chef on hand to assist and give you the coaching that you may need

KING'S CROSS: Class sizes are 20 in a class, with 2 people per workstation so you will be working in pairs. There will be a second chef on hand to assist and give you the coaching that you may need

3. How many instructors are there and what sort of qualifications do they have?

There will be one main tutor and an assistant at any one time on courses. Please see the Chef Biographies for more information and their individual backgrounds.

4. What time do the courses start and finish?

Course start and finish times will depend on the school and content of the session, please check the courses page for each individual course.

5. Can I buy a Gift Certificate?

We have Gift Certificates available to purchase online by clicking on the Gift Certificate link.

Please note that John Lewis Gift Vouchers are not accepted at the school at this time.

6. I would like more information on the course that I am booking.

There are summaries of the courses on the site but if you would like more information please call either school directly and we will happily talk you through the detail of the course.

7. I have booked a course but I am now unable to attend, can I change my course?

Please call the School on 0207 372 6108 and we will try to assist where availability and circumstances allow, however this cannot be guaranteed.

8. Do you have any courses available for children?

Each location offers courses for children and families, mostly during school holidays. The children's sessions are split into two categories; 5-8 year olds and 9-12 year olds as well as teen courses for those aged 13 - 17.

9. I am a beginner, are all the courses suitable for me?

All courses are suitable for all levels. The Chefs will ensure that you have the assistance required to enjoy the day and learn a new skill. It would be worth starting with a 'skills' course e.g.: Knife Skills/ Fish and Seafood/ Bread making. Please contact the school if you would like further guidance.

10. I am an experienced cook, are all the courses suitable for me?

All courses are suitable for all levels. The Chefs will ensure that you have the assistance required to enjoy the day and really develop your cooking skills. If you are an experienced cook, you may particularly enjoy the Secrets of Fine Dining course. Please contact the school if you would like further guidance.

11. Will I eat the food I make?

There will be an opportunity to eat all the dishes that you make. All students sit down together after each session to eat. The food is matched with wine and non alcoholic beverages and the chefs will also prepare some accompaniments.

12. Will I receive a certificate on the day?

We do not issue certificates as our courses do not provide qualifications.

13. What should I wear/take with me to the course?

Please wear comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes (no flip-flops or open toed shoes). An apron will be provided on the day. We will provide you with the recipes for each dish from the course, however, please bring a pad and a pen if you would like to take more detailed notes. Please also bring your ticket on the day.

14. I am disabled are there facilities for me?

We have a workstation that has been adapted for disabled cooks, and this can accommodate two people.

15. Will each student have a workstation to themselves?

There will be two students per workstation but there is ample room.

16. Can I cancel/re-book my course if I get sick, have an accident?

Should you not be able to attend your course due to an unforseeable circumstance, it is no problem to re-schedule. Please ring the cookery school should you need to cancel or re-book your chosen course. Courses are subject to availability. Please refer to the Terms and Conditions for full details.

17. Do you have facilities to purchase equipment on the day?

We have a small shop in which you can purchase our Waitrose Cookery School book, Aprons and a good selection of equipment that you use on the course. Our Chefs and Front of House team will be able to advise you if you have any questions.

18. Who processes the transactions and which cards are accepted?

WorldPay are our transaction agent and the following cards are accepted: Visa Credit, Visa Debit, Visa Electro, Mastercard.