10+ Catering Courses in Kenya

If you are interested in studying catering courses in Kenya, you must first identify the courses that are available near you.

Fortunately, there is a lots of information about schools that offer various catering courses around Kenya.

However, you must also understand what you are aiming for. Most catering courses in Kenya’s colleges and universities vary from certificates to degrees. They also differ in elements and duration according to the college you wish to attend.

If you want to be a good chef and contribute to Kenya’s catering management, consider taking catering courses in Kenya.

In this article, we’ll look at some of the best catering courses available in Kenya, detailing what each program offers and their requirements.

What is Catering
Types of Catering in Kenya
10+ Catering Courses in Kenya
Catering and Its Services in Kenya
Catering Courses Durations in Kenya
Catering Colleges in Kenya
General Catering Entry Requirements in Kenya
Catering Courses Fees in Kenya
FAQs
Conclusion
Reference
Recommendations

What is Catering

Catering is the process of preparing and serving meals to clients in remote locations such as hotels, restaurants, offices, concerts, and events. The catering industry includes businesses that provide food, drinks, and other services to a wide range of consumers, usually for special occasions.

Some restaurant owners may outsource their cooking to catering companies or even provide catering services to consumers. Customers, for example, may enjoy a certain meal so much that they request that it be served at their event.

Catering requires more than just cooking food and cleaning up after the celebration. Catering can also involve event planning and management. For example, if you provide corporate catering services, you will be expected to work with large groups and meet the expectations of corporate clients.

The catering firm may use its chefs to prepare food or purchase food from a vendor or third party for delivery to the client. You may also be required to arrange the food menu for business events like picnics, holiday parties, and other gatherings.

Types of Catering in Kenya

When launching a catering business, you must first decide on a catering specialty. With so many catering alternatives available, it’s only natural to conduct research and select a specific area that will be attractive to your target demographic while also improving your unique selling proposition.

The following are the types of catering in Kenya:

Event Catering

Event catering involves creating a menu, preparing, delivering, and serving food during social gatherings and parties. Catering is an essential component of every event.

As you are aware, events center around the food and beverage menu. Party guests may even claim that catering services are essential to the success of any event.

This category includes extraordinary events such as birthday celebrations, retirement parties, grand openings, housewarming parties, weddings, and baby showers. In addition, catering packages for event catering may include appetizers, décor, bartenders, and servers.

Types of Event Catering

Stationary Platters
Hors D’oeuvres
Small Plates and Stations
Three-Course Plated Dinner
Cocktail stands
Buffet
Outdoor BBQ
catering-business-resource

Full-Service Catering

Full-service catering handles every aspect of an event, including meal preparation, décor, and clean-up afterward. Unlike normal event catering, which only prepares and serves food and drinks, a full-service caterer manages all event details according to the client’s needs.

This catering handles some practical concerns, such as dinnerware, tablecloths, serving utensils, and on-site personnel support. The head caterer is in charge of overseeing all aspects of the event in order to ensure that each visitor is satisfied.

Full-service Catering Business Offer:

Venue setup
Menu planning
Dining setup
Food preparation
After-party cleanup

Self-Catering at Hotels

Self-catering at hotels means that guests can make their meals. For example, a self-catering apartment or room may have a small “kitchen” with amenities such as a fridge, a stove, a microwave, some basic kitchenware such as plates, bowls, and silverware, and a sink for doing dishes.

Generally, all visitors have access to self-catering options in their room, apartment, or shared kitchen. Because the corner of a normal hotel room is not particularly large, it can contain a small kitchen.

Family-Style Catering

When meals are served family style, plates are passed around and shared at the table. In this type of catering, visitors help themselves as needed.

This strategy speeds up catering while encouraging social contact among event guests via food sharing. Plates meal catering and family-style catering share some commonalities.

Like a plated supper, guests will not have to leave their seats because the catering team will bring everything to them. However, it is also similar to a buffet because caterers may provide attractively decorated platters for guests to roam around their tables rather than individually served meals.

Family-style cooking offers a more relaxed and social meal experience, particularly if no one knows anybody else.

Catering is a good course in Kenya because it provides motivated students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in Kenya’s catering industry. It is aimed at people who appreciate working and being creative with food. This course will appeal to those who are interested in hotel management.

Fortunately, there are various opportunities for those interested in entering this field as experts. The most popular catering course options in Kenya are:

Fundamentals of Travel and Tourism
Accommodation Operation
Housekeeping Management
Hotel Law
Hospitality Account
Hotel Maintainance and Engineering
Food Hygiene and Nutrition
Hospitality sales, Marketing and Public relations
Hotel & Tourism Economics and Statistics
Food and bakery confectionery production
Food and beverage service
Hospitality French

#1. Travel and Tourism Course in Kenya

The Travel and Tourism course in Kenya is designed to equip students with knowledge and skills for careers in the tourism industry. It focuses on the operation of travel agencies, tour guides, customer service, and hospitality management. This course emphasizes sustainable tourism practices, global travel dynamics, and innovative service delivery in the growing tourism sector.

Requirements

The entry requirements vary depending on the institution, but generally, a minimum grade of C- (KCSE) is required for diploma programs. Some universities may require additional qualifications or proficiency in communication skills for advanced programs.

Duration

Most diploma programs in Travel and Tourism take about 18 months to 2 years to complete. Certificate programs, such as IATA-based courses, may last 6 months.

Universities and Colleges Offering Travel and Tourism in Kenya

Technical University of Kenya (TUK), Nairobi
Kenya Utalii College
Mt. Kenya University (Thika and Nakuru Campuses)
Patana Institute, Mombasa
Africa College of Aviation and Management, Nairobi

#2. Catering and Accommodation Management

The Catering and Accommodation Management course is designed to equip students with skills and knowledge for managing hospitality services effectively. It covers aspects of catering services, food and beverage management, and accommodation operations such as housekeeping and front-office management. This program emphasizes both theoretical learning and practical training to prepare students for careers in the dynamic hospitality industry.

Requirements

Certificate Level: Minimum KCSE grade of D- and above.
Diploma Level: Minimum KCSE grade of C- and above.
Specific institutions may also require proficiency in communication skills and basic computer knowledge.

Duration

Certificate Level: Approximately 12 months.
Diploma Level: Typically lasts 36 months, including both classroom instruction and hands-on practical training.

Universities and Colleges Offering Catering and Accommodation Management in Kenya

NIE Technical College
Kenya Utalii College
Technical University of Kenya

#3. Housekeeping Management

Housekeeping Management is a professional program designed for individuals interested in supervising and managing cleaning and maintenance in hotels, resorts, and other hospitality establishments. This course equips students with practical and theoretical knowledge in managing housekeeping operations, laundry services, and ensuring top-notch guest satisfaction.

Requirements

To enroll in a Housekeeping Management course in Kenya, you typically need a minimum mean grade of C- (minus) in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE). Some institutions may accept a D+ (plus) for certificate-level courses.

Duration

The program usually takes between 1 to 2 years, depending on the institution and the level of study (certificate or diploma). It includes both classroom instruction and industry attachment to provide hands-on experience.

Where to Study Housekeeping Management in Kenya

Boma International Hospitality College
Dynamic Institute of Management and Accountancy (DIMA)
Riccatti Business College
Viteec Training Institute
Africa College of Aviation and Management

#4. Hotel Law Course in Kenya

The Hotel Law course in Kenya provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal principles governing the hospitality industry. It covers regulations related to contracts, liabilities, employment laws, and customer rights, ensuring that hospitality professionals operate within the framework of Kenyan law. This course is crucial for minimizing legal risks and maintaining ethical practices in the hospitality business.

Requirements

To enroll in a Hotel Law course, most institutions require a minimum KCSE grade of C- (minus) for diploma programs. Certificate-level courses may require a D+ (plus). Legal or hospitality industry experience is an added advantage for advanced programs.

Duration

The duration of this course varies:
Certificate Level: 6 months to 1 year.
Diploma Level: 1 to 2 years.

Universities and Colleges Offering Hotel Law in Kenya

Kenya Utalii College
Technical University of Kenya (TUK)
International Hotel and Tourism Institute (IHTI)
Gretsa University

#5. Hospitality Account Course in Kenya

The Hospitality Account course in Kenya equips students with financial management skills tailored to the hospitality industry. It focuses on budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting to help manage resources effectively and improve business performance. This course is essential for individuals aspiring to work in finance roles within hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality establishments.

Requirements

Most institutions require a minimum KCSE grade of C- (minus) for diploma programs. For certificate courses, a D+ (plus) is generally accepted. Proficiency in basic mathematics is an added advantage.

Duration

Certificate Level: Approximately 6 months to 1 year.
Diploma Level: Typically 18 months to 2 years.

Universities and Colleges Offering Hospitality Account in Kenya

Kenya Utalii College
Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS)
Mt. Kenya University
Gretsa University

#6. Hotel Maintenance and Engineering Course in Kenya

The Hotel Maintenance and Engineering course is designed to train students on the technical aspects of maintaining and managing hotel facilities. It covers key areas such as electrical systems, plumbing, air conditioning, and general repair work to ensure seamless hotel operations and guest comfort.

Requirements

For certificate programs, a KCSE grade of D+ (plus) or above is required. Diploma programs typically require a minimum KCSE grade of C- (minus). Technical knowledge in physics or mathematics may be an added advantage for some institutions.

Duration

Certificate Level: 6 months to 1 year.
Diploma Level: 1 to 2 years.

Universities and Colleges Offering Hotel Maintenance and Engineering in Kenya

Kenya Technical Trainers College
Technical University of Kenya (TUK)
Nairobi Institute of Technology
Rift Valley Technical Training Institute

#7. Food Hygiene and Nutrition Course in Kenya

The Food Hygiene and Nutrition course trains students on maintaining food safety standards and understanding nutrition principles in the hospitality industry. It prepares learners to manage food preparation, storage, and service, ensuring both health and customer satisfaction.

Requirements

A KCSE grade of D+ (plus) is required for certificate-level programs, while diploma courses require at least a C- (minus). Proficiency in science-related subjects is an advantage.

Duration

Certificate Level: Approximately 6 months to 1 year.
Diploma Level: 1 to 2 years.

Universities and Colleges Offering Food Hygiene and Nutrition in Kenya

Kenya Utalii College
Eldoret National Polytechnic
Mount Kenya University
International Hotel and Tourism Institute (IHTI)

#8. Hospitality Sales, Marketing, and Public Relations Course in Kenya

The Hospitality Sales, Marketing, and Public Relations course trains students to promote hospitality services effectively. It focuses on strategies for customer engagement, branding, and public relations to drive business growth in the competitive hospitality sector.

Requirements

Certificate programs typically require a KCSE grade of D+ (plus), while diploma programs require a minimum grade of C- (minus). Good communication skills are an added advantage.

Duration

Certificate Level: 6 months to 1 year.
Diploma Level: 1 to 2 years.

Universities and Colleges Offering Hospitality Sales, Marketing, and Public Relations in Kenya

Kenya Utalii College
Technical University of Kenya (TUK)
Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS)
Zetech University

#9. Hotel and Tourism Economics and Statistics Course in Kenya

This course combines economics and statistical analysis to help students understand market trends, customer behavior, and financial performance in the hospitality and tourism industry. It equips learners with analytical skills essential for decision-making and business planning.

Requirements

A KCSE grade of C- (minus) is required for diploma programs, while certificate courses may accept a D+ (plus). A background in mathematics or economics is an advantage.

Duration

Certificate Level: 6 months to 1 year.
Diploma Level: 1 to 2 years.

Universities and Colleges Offering Hotel and Tourism Economics and Statistics in Kenya

Technical University of Kenya (TUK)
Kenya Utalii College
Gretsa University
Mount Kenya University

#10. Food and Bakery Confectionery Production Course in Kenya

The Food and Bakery Confectionery Production course provides students with practical skills in baking and confectionery, focusing on quality production and presentation. It is ideal for individuals interested in careers in bakery management or professional pastry-making.

Requirements

For certificate programs, a KCSE grade of D+ (plus) is required. Diploma programs typically require a C- (minus). Creativity and a passion for culinary arts are advantageous.

Duration

Certificate Level: 6 months to 1 year.
Diploma Level: 1 to 2 years.

Universities and Colleges Offering Food and Bakery Confectionery Production in Kenya

Kenya Utalii College
International Hotel and Tourism Institute (IHTI)
Zetech University
Boma International Hospitality College

#11. Food and Beverage Service Course in Kenya

The Food and Beverage Service course trains students to deliver exceptional dining experiences. It covers customer service, menu planning, and beverage preparation, ensuring learners are well-equipped to work in restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality establishments.

Requirements

A KCSE grade of D+ (plus) is required for certificate programs, while diploma courses require a minimum grade of C- (minus). Communication skills are an added advantage.

Duration

Certificate Level: 6 months to 1 year.
Diploma Level: 1 to 2 years.

Universities and Colleges Offering Food and Beverage Service in Kenya

Kenya Utalii College
Technical University of Kenya (TUK)
Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS)
Boma International Hospitality College

#12. Hospitality French Course in Kenya

The Hospitality French course equips students with the French language skills necessary for communication in the hospitality industry. It is ideal for professionals working in international hotels, tour guides, and customer service roles.

Requirements

Certificate programs generally require a KCSE grade of D+ (plus) or above. Diploma programs require a minimum grade of C- (minus). No prior knowledge of French is required, but a passion for learning languages is a plus.

Duration

Certificate Level: 6 months to 1 year.
Diploma Level: 1 to 2 years.

Universities and Colleges Offering Hospitality French in Kenya

Alliance Française de Nairobi
Kenya Utalii College
Gretsa University
International Hotel and Tourism Institute (IHTI)

Catering and Its Services in Kenya

Being a caterer, you do a lot of things. In which they are:

Wedding Catering
Winter cocktails reception
Corporate Catering
Buffet Catering
Sit-down Catering
Petite Take-Away Buffet Catering

Catering Courses Durations in Kenya

Once you’ve decided to study a catering course, you may want to think about how long it will take to complete it. A regular catering course usually lasts 18 months.

However, the time of a single course will vary based on the degree of certification. Certificate-level courses are shorter than degree courses.

Aside from the course level, different universities provide varying levels of certification for varying durations. For example, a certificate in catering at one college may take four months to finish and six months at another institution for a similar course level.

Catering Colleges in Kenya

Kenya’s capital city has various institutes that provide catering courses. These range from degrees to certificates, with varying durations. With so many catering training courses available, anyone may turn their passion into a job after completing the necessary training.

The following are examples of colleges that offer catering courses.

Kenya Utalii College

As one of Kenya’s leading catering colleges, Utalii provides an extensive choice of courses to its students.

Visit School Here

International Hotel and Tourism Institute

This college is situated in Kileleshwa, Nairobi. It offers the BTEC Higher National Diploma in Catering course. The course takes two years to complete.

Visit School Here

Kenya Polytechnic University College

It offers a Diploma in Catering and Hotel Management for 2 years. Students must have attained a minimum of C plain to enroll. Alternatively, they must have a certificate in catering and hospitality.

The above catering courses are available at the college.

Visit School Here

General Catering Entry Requirements in Kenya

Here are the general entry requirements to study catering courses in kenya:

Level	Courses	Subjects Requirements
Degree (Bachelor’s)	Catering and Hotel Management Hospitality management Food operation management Institutional, catering and Accommodation	ENG/KIS MAT (C Plain) Best in Group II or III Best in Group II/III/IV/V
Diploma	Food and Beverage Catering and accommodation management	Mean Grade (C-)
Certificate	Food Preparation and culinary Arts Food and Beverage Production Sales and services	Mean Grade (D Plain)
Artisan and NVCET	Food and Beverage production and beverage and service Catering and accommodation	Mean Grade (E)

Catering Courses Fees in Kenya

There is no standard fee, and the fee you pay depends on where you’re taking the course.

However, the range is between shs.9000 each term to over shs. 400,000 per year (top-tier colleges like Boma can be fairly expensive).

The most important thing to remember is that studying at a public TVET college is significantly less expensive because the government pays a portion of the fees.

Furthermore, HELB (Higher Education Loans Board) advances study loans like sallie mae student loans to suitable students, relieving your financial burden even more.

FAQs

How long is a catering course in Kenya

Our Certificate in Catering and Accommodations program takes a duration of 12 months.

What are the 7 P’s of catering

The 7 P’s of marketing are Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People, Physical Evidence, and Process.

What is the difference between catering and cookery

The main difference between a caterer and a chef is that a caterer works at private events rather than in a brick and mortar shop.

Does catering include baking

A Caterer is one who Cooks a Variety of food including continental Dishes While a Baker is One who specializes in baking cakes, pastries and it likes.

Is catering a course in a university

Yes, Catering is a course in university. Degrees related to catering can usually be studied at the foundation, undergraduate or postgraduate level.

Conclusion

Some of the most popular catering courses in Kenya will provide the learner with essential skills to get started.

Kenya has various colleges that offer catering courses throughout the country, allowing students to learn from anywhere in the country. Each of these universities has distinct requirements for the courses they provide. Know what is required at the college you want to attend.

You can pursue several kinds of catering courses. Going through this article to choose your desired course will result in a smooth and successful learning experience. Enjoy the adventure and begin a successful career in any of the courses you select.

Reference

tuko.co.ke– Catering courses, requirements, universities and colleges offering in Kenya
career360.com– Catering
bluecart.com – What is Catering? What is a Caterer? Types of Catering