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 class. It is the customer's responsibility to inform us of any dietary requirements at least 3 days before the class 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 class accordingly for you.

2. What size are the classes

Finchley Road classes have 20 participants, working in pairs

Kings Cross classes have 20 participants, working in pairs

Salisbury classes have 12 participants, working in pairs

Our Cheltenham cookery school is currently closed until further notice

3. What time do the classes start and finish?

Class start and finish times will depend on the school and content of the session, please check the classes page for each individual class.

4. Can I buy a Gift Card?

We have Gift Cards available to purchase online by clicking on the Gift Card link.

Please note that John Lewis Gift Vouchers are not accepted at the Cookery Schools.

5. I would like more information on the class that I am booking

There are summaries of the classes 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 class.

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

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

7. I am a beginner, are all the classes suitable for me?

All classes are suitable for all levels. The chefs will ensure that you have the assistance required to enjoy the day and learn a new skill. Please contact the school if you would like further guidance.

8. Will I eat the food I make?

With the exception of some courses including baking, There will be an opportunity to eat all the dishes that you make. All participating customers 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.

9. Will I receive a certificate on the day?

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

10. What should I wear/take with me to the classes?

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 class, 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.

11. 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.

12. Will each student have a workstation to themselves?

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

13. Can I cancel/re-book my class if I get sick or have an accident?

Should you not be able to attend your class 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 class. Classes are subject to availability. Please refer to the Terms and Conditions for full details.

14. 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.

15. What age do I have to be to attend a class? 

Except in relation to ‘Children’s Classes’ and ‘Family Classes’, you must be at least 16 years old to attend one of our classes. By submitting a booking form you warrant that at the time of the cookery class you, and anyone else you are booking for, will be 16 years old or over. Waitrose Cookery School reserves the right to require proof of age at the commencement of your cookery class, and to refuse attendance if you do not have proof of age. Exceptions to the age requirements for a class will be by prior written agreement from the Waitrose Cookery School only. A child from the age of 12 to 15 is welcome on our courses when accompanied by an adult over the age of 18 who also purchases a place on the course.

16. Do you have any classes available for children?

Each location offers classes 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 classes for those aged 13 - 17.  
Please check our ‘view all classes’ page for each school for availability.