Academy of Oriental Cuisine

Prospective Students

The Academy is a unique accredited centre of learning. Based in one of the North's most vibrant and diverse cities it is a wonderful dynamic environment to further your learning!

If you need are visting Leeds and need accomodation, it is worth looking at the two hotels below. They are both close to the Academy. To find out more information or to book a room please call:

Etap Hotel (Crown Point Road) - telephone 0113 245 0752 www.etaphotel.com

Travel Lodge (Leeds Vicar Lane ) - telephone 0871 984 6337 www.travelodge.co.uk

Language Courses

At the Academy of Oriental Cuisine we have a dynamic, fresh English language team who are enthusiastic, talented and highly motivated. We believe that the ability to speak English can help with studying, working and interacting whilst in the UK. We want to help you on your journey to success.

Following the introduction of the Points Based System we delivery English language tests not only for students wanting to go on to further education at College and university, but also for talented candidates who wish to move employers and broaden their knowledge and experience in the work place.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT THERE HAS BEEN POSTAL STRIKES AND CERTIFICATES MAY TAKE LONGER TO ARRIVE. YOUR PATIENCE IS APPRECIATED.

PBSETT1 (Points Based System English Test Tier 1)

Study Type:

Full-time/ Part-time

Course Length:

One Day

Start Date:

Feb. 29th 2008

Course Location:

Academy Building, First Floor

Course Overview:

The next test dates will be

Friday 5th February

Tuesday 16th February

To reserve your place send in your completed application form, photocopies of your passport and two recent passport photos and payment of £100.00. Places are reserved on a first come first served basis.

Please make all cheques payable to Academy of Oriental Cuisine Ltd. Credit/Debit card payments can be taken over the phone.

Click here for an application form

Click here for the rules and regulations

If you have made a quick enquiry and are wating for a reply, please also check your spam box. We have had feedback that some of the returned messages are going directly into the spam box, not the inbox. If you are unsure, pelase submit a new quick enquiry, or e-mail directly to courses_academy@yahoo.co.uk

The Government has announced that, starting in 2008, the current rules for managed migration will be replaced by a new Points Based System (PBS). The goal of this new system is to make it more efficient and less complex to apply to train, study or work in the UK.

The current Work Permit application system will be abolished. A company will no longer apply for each employee to get a Work Permit. A company now must apply to the Home Office to become an "approved sponsor". Once this sponsor status has been registered the company will be able to provide a certificate of sponsorship to the employee. The employee will then be able to apply for a visa. The new system is based on a tier system, this test is for Tier 1 candidates. Tier 1 are classed as Highly Skilled Individuals - this will replace the current Highly Skilled Migrant Program (HSMP)

One of the requirements of the PBS will be that, in most cases, migrants coming to the UK to undertake skilled, highly skilled work or to apply for an extention of an existing Visa, must demonstrate that they have an accepable standard of English.

English is the official language of the UK and the PBSETT1 certificate which we offer at the Academy of Oriental Cuisine will confirm that you have been assessed according to the required standard of English. A certificate will be issued when you pass.

Requirements for Taking the Test

Complete the application form
Send the application form back with photocopies of your passport
Include two recent passport photographs
Include the fee, which is £100.00 - payable by cheque, credit/debit card or cash if paying in person.

If you need to sit the test urgently, for an additional small charge, we may be able to organise a test date for you. This is not guaranteed, if it not possible you will incur no additional fee.

Re-taking the Test

If you need to re-take the PBSETT1, you will need to start the process from the beginning and re-submit an application form, two recent photos, new photocopies of your passport and the fee, which remains £100.00 no matter how many times you sit the test.

Course Content:

PBSET (Points Based System English Test) is divided into four parts; listening, reading, writing and speaking. Each of the part will last 1 hour. (Speaking may be varied according to individuals). Please read the following instructions for more details about each part.

Listening

Candidates will listen to four pieces of recorded texts. The texts could be monologues or conversations which will be in a variety of different accents. The level of difficulty increases test by test. The recording lasts about 30 minutes, and candidates will be given time to read the questions and write the answer.

Reading

There are four texts for the candidates to read in this test. The texts may be taken from newspaper, magazines, TV programme and/or books to test the candidates’ abilities and understanding. There is at least one descriptive test. The time length is maximum 1 hour.

Writing

There are two parts of writing that candidates must finish within 1 hour. In the first part, candidates are asked to write a letter according to the given subject. The word count is generally around 150, and the suggested time spent on this should be 20-25 minutes. For the second part, candidates are asked to write an essay of approximately 200-300 words to answer a question or respond to a statement. The suggested time spent on this should be 35-40 minutes. The total time length is 1 hour.

Speaking

The candidates will take the test with the assessor face to face. The assessor will assess the candidate's English language ability by their use of language to answer the questions. There are four parts to the speaking tasks. One is answering questions about personal and daily information. The other are a personal presentation on a given topics, a role-play and discussion. The test will last approximately 30 - 40 minutes. This includes time given to prepare or their presentation.

Results

The Academy of Oriental Cuisine will endeavour to mark the papers within a reasonable amount of time. The results should be expected within 15 - 20 working days from taking the test. You will notified by letter, unless you request to be notified by e-mail.

The e-mail is recommended for people who need their results quickly and allows candidates to organise a re-test if necessary. The letter is the formal and official response.

PBSETT2 (Points Based System English Test Tier 2)

Study Type:

Course Length:

One day

Start Date:

New Rules Started on 27th November 2008

Course Location:

Academy Building, First Floor, Leeds

Course Overview:

The next test dates will be:

Day	Date	LEEDS	LONDON	Express Service (1 week results)
Monday	1^st March	£150.00	-----	£50.00
Monday	8^th March	£150.00	-----	£50.00
Wednesday	17^th March	-----	£250.00	£75.00
Monday	12^th March	£150.00	-----	£50.00

To reserve your place send in your application form, two recent passport photos, photocopies of your passport front page and visas and payment. Credit/ Debit card payments need to be made by completing the payment form part of the application form. Places are reserved on a first come first served basis.

CLICK HERE to download the application form

CLICK HERE to download the rules and regulations for the PBSET.

If you have made a quick enquiry and are wating for a reply, please also check your spam box. We have had feedback that some of the return messages are going directly into the spam box, not the inbox. If you are unsure, pelase submit a new quick enquiry, or e-mail directly to courses_academy@yahoo.co.uk

Requirements for Taking the Test

Complete the application form
Send the application form back with photocopies of your passport
Include two recent passport photographs
Include the fee, which is £150.00 - payable by cheque, credit card, or cash if paying in person.

If you need to sit the test urgently, for an additional small charge, we may be able to organise a test date for you. This is not guaranteed, if it is not possible you will incur no additional fee.

Re-taking the Test

If you need to re-take the PBSETT2, you will need to start the process from the beginning and re-submit an application form, two recent photos, new photocopies of your passport and the fee, which remains £150.00 no matter how many times you sit the test.

Course Content:

PBSET (Points Based System English Test) is divided into four parts; listening, reading, writing and speaking. The reading, writing and listening parts will last 2 hours. The speaking may be approximately 15-25 mins. Please read the following instructions for more details about each part.

Listening
Candidates will listen to different pieces of materials and be asked to identify what is being discussed, or match statements to graphs, symbols or pictures.

Reading
The reading test include short texts where the candidate will have to answer short questions. Some questions may include filling in the missing words or answering multiple choice questions. .

Writing
The writing test will require that the candidate correctly re-writes a text and they may be expected to write simple sentence structures like writting a shopping list, a simple letter, message or postcard.

Speaking
The candidates will take the test with the assessor on a one-to-one basis. The test wil be in two different sections. In the first sections the will candidate be asked to answer a few short personal questions such as thier name and address. The second part will be a short role-play.

Results
The Academy of Oriental Cuisine will endeavour to mark the papers within a reasonable amount of time. The results should be expected within 14 - 20 working days from taking the test. You will notified by letter, unless you request to be notified by e-mail.

The e-mail is recommended for people who need their results quickly and allows candidates to organise a re-test if necessary. The letter is the formal and official response.

ESOL Skills For Life - with Citizenship

Study Type:

Part-Time / Full-Time

Course Length:

300 hours

Start Date:

On-Going

Course Location:

Academy Building, First Floor, Leeds

Course Overview:

ESOL Skills for Life

ESOL Skills for Life is the main ESOL qualification for settled learners in the UK.

It covers the full range of language skills and contexts set out in the Adult ESOL core curriculum, focusing on giving people in settled communities the overall language they need for social and economic inclusion.

At the Academy of Oriental Cuisine the course is delivered using the NIACE/LLU + Citizenship learning materials, therefore the ESOL Skills for Life certificate can help applicants for British Citizenship or Indefinite Leave to Remain to meet the new language and UK knowledge requirements.

The qualification is available from Entry 1 and Entry 2, and at each level candidates can complete a full-mode qualification (Reading, Writing, and Speaking and Listening) qualification.

As part of the requirements of the qualification the course is 300 hours. The course can be delivered as a a part timecourse one day a week or multiple mornings per week.

Please click here to download the application form

PBSET Tier 2 - Tests in NORTH CHINA

Study Type:

Short Intensive Training

Course Length:

Confirmed after Interview

Start Date:

TEST on MONDAY 7th SEPTEMBER 2009

Course Location:

Dongzhimenwai, East District, Beijing

Course Overview:

* DISCLAIMER

The information on this page of the website is designed to facilitate your experience of training and testing for the Points Based System English Test. The Centres in China are independent Centre from the Academy of Oriental Cuisine and we cannot guarantee the quality of training or the delivery of the PBSET.

The Academy of Oriental Cuisine is the first on the list on the UKBA list of approved English Language Tests. The test has been specially designed for the Points Based System.

Requirements for Applying for the Test

Applying By Post

· Complete the application form

· Send the application form back with photocopies of your passport

· Include two recent passport photographs

· Include the test fee of ¥1500.00 - payable by bank transfer or credit/debit card.

If you need to sit the test urgently, for an additional small charge, we may be able to organise a test date for you. This is not guaranteed, if it is not possible you will incur no additional fee.

WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR TEST, YOU HAVE TO BRING YOUR ORIGINAL PASSPORT AND IDENTIFICATION.

Applying in Person

· Complete the application form

· Bring in the original passport and the office will take copies photocopies of your passport

· Bring two recent passport photographs

· Include the test fee of ¥1500.00 - payable by cash, bank transfer or credit/debit card.

WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR TEST, YOU HAVE TO BRING YOUR ORIGINAL PASSPORT AND IDENTIFICATION

For more information please e-mail the UK office on courses_academy@yahoo.co.uk

Or telephone (+0086) 1084549915

Re-taking the Test

Course Content:

PBSET (Points Based System English Test) is divided into four parts; listening, reading, writing and speaking. The reading, writing and listening parts will last 2 hours. The speaking may be approximately 10-15 minutes. Please read the following instructions for more details about each part.

Listening
Candidates will listen to different pieces of materials and be asked to identify what is being discussed, or match statements to graphs, symbols or pictures.

Writing
The writing test will require that the candidate correctly re-writes a text and they may be expected to write simple sentence structures like writing a shopping list, a simple letter, message or postcard.

Speaking
The candidates will take the test with the assessor on a one-to-one basis. The test will be in two different sections. In the first sections the candidate will be asked to answer some short personal questions such as their name and address. The second part will be a short role-play.

Results
The Academy of Oriental Cuisine will endeavour to mark the papers within a reasonable amount of time. Receiving results will be different from Centre to Centre. As a guide line results are generally certificated within 14 - 20 working days from taking the test.

PBSET Tier 2 * Tests in SOUTH CHINA*

Study Type:

Short Intensive Training

Course Length:

Confirmed after interview

Start Date:

TEST on WEDNESDAY 9th SEPTEMBER

Course Location:

Guangzhou

Course Overview:

* DISCLAIMER

The Academy of Oriental Cuisine is the first on the list on the UKBA list of approved English Language Tests. The test has been specially designed for the Points Based System.

Requirements for Applying for the Test

Applying By Post

· Complete the application form

· Send the application form back with photocopies of your passport

· Include two recent passport photographs

· Include the test fee of ¥1500.00 - payable by bank transfer or credit/debit card.

If you need to sit the test urgently, for an additional small charge, we may be able to organise a test date for you. This is not guaranteed, if it is not possible you will incur no additional fee.

WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR TEST, YOU HAVE TO BRING YOUR ORIGINAL PASSPORT AND IDENTIFICATION.

Applying in Person

· Complete the application form

· Bring in the original passport and the office will take copies photocopies of your passport

· Bring two recent passport photographs

· Include the test fee of ¥1500.00 - payable by cash, bank transfer or credit/debit card.

WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR TEST, YOU HAVE TO BRING YOUR ORIGINAL PASSPORT AND IDENTIFICATION

For more information please e-mail the UK office on courses_academy@yahoo.co.uk

Or telephone (+0086) 1084549915

Re-taking the Test

International ESOL Elementary English Language

Study Type:

Full Time

Course Length:

One Academic Year

Start Date:

On-Going

Course Location:

Academy Site

Course Overview:

The Introductory English Course is for the beginner who have little or no knowledge of the English language. The course is delivered over 15 hours a week and covers interesting and useful topic which will help you during daily life in the UK.

The full academic year of introduction level is divided into 3 terms over 43 weeks. It aims at improving the students’ basic knowledge of the English language and level of communicative competence. The primary objective is that students will be able to engage in conversations about day to day activities. The classes focus on the overall development of students’ in all four language skills including speaking, listening, reading and writing. The course is delivered following the Common European Framework for Reference for language levels A1 - A2. Please see the table for more information.

There will be plenty of teacher-learner and learner-learner interaction in classes, which will to a large extent encourage and nurture the students’ practical use of the language. Real-life skills, e.g. letter writing, contract signing, booking tickets, will be also be included as a means of increasing the value and practical use of the course.

Students will also have opportunities to participate in social activities and events outside the classroom, which will reinforce the practical use of the language and knowledge of real British life and culture.

Common European Framework Reference for language

CEFR General Criteria – Learning Outcome
*Introduction course*
Basic User (beginner)	A1	Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people he/she knows and things he/she has. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.
	A2	Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of his/her background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need.

Course Content:

The course is delivered following the CERF A1 - A2. Below are the learning outcomes expected for this level.

*Introduction Course*
*A1 CERF for Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing*
Listening	I can recognise familiar words and very basic phrases concerning myself, my family and immediate concrete surroundings when people speak slowly and clearly.
Speaking Interaction	I can interact in a simple way provided the other person is prepared to repeat or rephrase things at a slower rate of speech and help me formulate what I'm trying to say. I can ask and answer simple questions in areas of immediate need or on very familiar topics.
Speaking Production	I can use simple phrases and sentences to describe where I live and people I know.
Reading	I can understand familiar names, words and very simple sentences, for example on notices and posters or in catalogues.
Writing	I can write a short, simple postcard, for example sending holiday greetings. I can fill in forms with personal details, for example entering my name, nationality and address on a hotel registration form.
*A2 CERF for Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing*
Listening	I can understand phrases and the highest frequency vocabulary related to areas of most immediate personal relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local area, employment). I can catch the main point in short, clear, simple messages and announcements.
Speaking Interaction	I can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics and activities. I can handle very short social exchanges, even though I can't usually understand enough to keep the conversation going myself.
Speaking Production	I can use a series of phrases and sentences to describe in simple terms my family and other people, living conditions, my educational background and my present or most recent job.
Reading	I can read very short, simple texts. I can find specific, predictable information in simple everyday material such as advertisements, prospectuses, menus and timetables and I can understand short simple personal letters.
Writing	I can write short, simple notes and messages relating to matters in areas of immediate needs. I can write a very simple personal letter, for example thanking someone for something.

click here to download new course fees - from March 2009

click here to download the application form for oversee students- English version

click here to download the application form for local students

click here to download the terms and conditions

International ESOL Intermediate English Language

Study Type:

Part Time or Full Time

Course Length:

One Academic Year

Start Date:

On-Going

Course Location:

Academy Site

Course Overview:

The academic year of intermediate level is divided into 3 terms over 43 weeks. This course is more challenging and demanding and is aimed at candidates who already have some knowledge of the English language.

The Intermediate English course's objective is to develop the level of English language, academic competence and awareness of the world. It is a combination of a comprehensive overview of the English language, and a detailed practical study of the skills necessary for academic work and research.

The first term of intermediate course is designed to provide further development of students’ English language ability in an everyday environment. This will help to equip students with more competence and confidence to have an enjoyable and happy student life within in UK.

The second term is focused on the students’ individual development. The student’s personal interests will get further development during the study by completing short set assignments, presentations and group work projects. During this term, the teacher will work closely with the students during their assignments.

In the third term, the teaching will mainly focus on extending and developing students’ study and research skills. This will be very useful for students who may wish to continue education in a UK university, or perhaps a student who would like to work in an English company.

The course is delivered following the Common European Framework for Reference for language. The level is B1 - B2.

CEFR General Criteria – Learning Outcome
*Intermediate Course*
Independent User (intermediate)	B1	Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.
	B2	Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

Course Content:

The course is delivered following the CERF B1 - B2. Below are the learning outcomes expected for this level.

*Intermediate Course*
*B1 CERF for Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing*
Listening	I can understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. I can understand the main point of many radio or TV programmes on current affairs or topics of personal or professional interest when the delivery is relatively slow and clear.
Speaking Interaction	I can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. I can enter unprepared into conversation on topics that are familiar, of personal interest or pertinent to everyday life (e.g. family, hobbies, work, travel and current events).
Speaking Production	I can connect phrases in a simple way in order to describe experiences and events, my dreams, hopes and ambitions. I can briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. I can narrate a story or relate the plot of a book or film and describe my reactions.
Reading	I can understand texts that consist mainly of high frequency everyday or job-related language. I can understand the description of events, feelings and wishes in personal letters.
Writing	I can write simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. I can write personal letters describing experiences and impressions.
*B2 CERF for Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing*
Listening	I can understand extended speech and lectures and follow even complex lines of argument provided the topic is reasonably familiar. I can understand most TV news and current affairs programmes. I can understand the majority of films in standard dialect.
Speaking Interaction	I can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible. I can take an active part in discussion in familiar contexts, accounting for and sustaining my views.
Speaking Production	I can present clear, detailed descriptions on a wide range of subjects related to my field of interest. I can explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Reading	I can read articles and reports concerned with contemporary problems in which the writers adopt particular attitudes or viewpoints. I can understand contemporary literary prose.
Writing	I can write clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects related to my interests. I can write an essay or report, passing on information or giving reasons in support of or against a particular point of view. I can write letters highlighting the personal significance of events and experiences.

Click here to download new course fees - from March 2009

click here to download the oversea students application form - English Version

click here to download the local students application form

click here to download the terms and contidions

Professional Courses

These courses are more directed to people who are training to work in the catering and hospitality industry. The qualifications are nationally recognised and a good method to confirm your level of skill and expertise.

NVQ Level 2 Professional Cookery

Study Type:

Full Time/ Part Time

Course Length:

450 Guided Learning Hours

Start Date:

On-Going

Course Location:

Academy Site/Academy Restaurant

Course Overview:

NVQ stands for National Vocation Qualification. This is a type of qualification is a more practical and vocational than theory and is better suited for people who have had some previous experience in real working kitchen environments.

Level 2 competance involves the application of knowledge and skills in a significant range of varied work activites, performed in a variety of contexts, Some of these activities are complex or non-routein and there is some individual responsibility and autonomy. Collaboration with others, perhaps though membership of a work group or team, may often required. At this level , and with the appropriate experience, you might work as an asssistant chef of second chef. Employers could include take-aways, restaurants and hotels.

We would like to say congratulations to all our 2007 learners who have succesfully achieved Professional Cookery NVQ Level 2!

Academy of Oriental Cuisine Sample Academic Time Table

Each week is made up 15 hours lessons and assessment. The lessons can be delivered in different methods, for example three 5 hour days, or five 3 hour mornings.

Course Content:

The course covers general units including team-work, working in a safe and hygienic manner and maintaining food safety during storage, preparation and cooking. There are additional units that include basic knife and cooking techniques to prepare and cook basic vegetable, egg, meat and rice dishes. At the end of each unit there is a short written paper to prove the knowledge and skill demonstrated during the NVQ.

Click here to download the application form

Taster Courses

The Academy offers a range of day courses for those who would like to know more about Chinese cookery. Our specialist chefs would love to introduce you to the delights of different regional foods.

The courses are delivered on site within our purpose built training kitchen. We provide the ingredients and the expertise, all that missing is you and your enthusiasm. These courses can be booked for one person as a group, or as a private party. Why not have a taster course in the morning and stay for a late lunch in our on-site restaurant, Mulan Restaurant & Bar. Personalised gift vouchers make a lovely present for budding chefs and good hosts all over Yorkshire.

If there is particular course you would love to take which is not on the timetables, send us an e-mail and we will let the chefs know. We are always changing and growing and we value your feedback.

Short Courses

For beginners and amateur cooks, these short courses are designed to create a foundation for new kitchen skills.

Foundation Food Hygiene

Study Type:

One Day Course

Course Length:

6 hours

Start Date:

On-Going

Course Location:

Academy Site/Business Site

Course Overview:

This is a basic foundation course is an essential for any persons dealing with food, including sandwich stores, take away counter staff and chef. It has been designed to give a broad understanding of fundamental health and hygiene standards that everyone should be adhere to.

Course Content:

The course covers microbiology and illness, bacteria, high risk foods, contamination and preventions of illness, temperature control, preparing and presenting food, spoilage and reservation, delivery and storage, personal hygiene, cleaning and disinfection, food pests, premises and equipment, food safety controls. This is a good starter course for anyone wanting to work in kitchens or any food service premise.

Click here to down load the application form

Useful Forms

Click here for the International Application Form

Click here for the Pre-Arrival Pack

Click here for Terms & Conditions

Self Assessment Form

Study Type:

Course Length:

Start Date:

Course Location:

Course Overview:

If you are ill and have missed any time from your course, it is recommended that you complete a self assessment form. This form can be used for up to seven days absence.

For absence for longer periods of time a General Practitioners note is needed. For more information please contact the administration office.

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Complaints Form

Study Type:

Course Length:

Start Date:

Course Location:

Course Overview:

At the Academy of Oriental Cuisine we take all our complaints seriously. As part of the complaints procedure you have the opportunity to submit a form with any information about your complaints. Often any issues can be resolved easily and we use this process to keep improving our services and maintaing our good reputation.

Please print out the form below and submit it to the adminstration office.

Complaints Form Page 1.jpg

Complaints Form Page 2.jpg

Useful Forms

Coming soon...

Prospective Students

Language Courses

Or telephone (+0086) 1084549915

Or telephone (+0086) 1084549915

Professional Courses

Taster Courses

Short Courses

Useful Forms

Useful Forms

Quick Enquiry