Join us for our Open Evening at Leiths on Thursday 5th February 2026, 6:30–8:30pm, and discover how the Culinary Diploma can launch your career in food.
Join us for our Open Evening at Leiths on Thursday 5th February 2026, 6:30–8:30pm, and discover how the Culinary Diploma can launch your career in food.
This guide provides key information for prospective students at Leiths Culinary School, including admissions requirements, course fees, payment options and available bursaries. Use it to plan your studies and prepare for the next step in your culinary journey.
As Admissions and Recruitment Manager, I’m always delighted to hear from prospective students and their families who are interested in learning more about our culinary courses.
Choosing the right culinary school and course is an important decision. We’re here to guide and support you every step of the way as you explore whether Leiths is the right fit for you.
With flexible pathways of culinary education, we can help you find the right course to match your ambitions and build the foundations for your future in food.
If you have a passion for food and are ready to take the next step, get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you to Leiths.
Matt Beavis
Admissions and Recruitment Manager
You can book your place on the Leiths Culinary Diploma directly through our online booking system. Most applications are processed immediately and you’ll receive a secure payment link to confirm your place. If we need any additional information, we’ll contact you directly before processing your booking.
A deposit will be required to confirm your place. This can be paid via a secure payment link sent by email or by BACS, arranged by our Admissions and Recruitment Manager.
Payments for all courses must be made by bank transfer or debit/credit card (excluding American Express).
By booking, you agree to our course booking terms and conditions. Read our full terms and conditions here.
After the deposit is paid, all remaining course fees are due six weeks before the course starts. You’ll receive an invoice with payment instructions and details on how to order your equipment and uniform through our online system.
For more information on finance and payment plans, please contact our Admissions and Recruitment Manager at [email protected] or call 0203 996 2690.
Before applying, please review our admissions requirements carefully to ensure you meet the criteria for your chosen course.
Applicants must be 18 years old or above at the time of taking the course; there is no upper age limit.
If English is your second language, you should provide proof of an IELTS band score of 6 for the Core Certificate or 6.5 for the full Culinary Diploma (equivalent to C1 on the CEFR).
If English is your second language, you should provide proof of an IELTS band score of 6.5, which equates to C1 on the CEFR. If you have previously studied at degree level in the UK, this requirement does not apply.
If you are an international student requiring a Student Visa or a Standard Visitor Visa, please inform us before submitting your application. Any visa-related questions can be directed to our Admissions and Recruitment Manager at [email protected].
In some countries, visa processing can take over six weeks. We strongly recommend beginning the process as early as possible and no later than 12 weeks before your course begins. You can find more information on our International Students and Visas page. .
We can make adjustments where possible. Please read our full policy on allergies and dietary restrictions here.
We also recommend that all prospective students ensure their tetanus immunisation is up to date.
Experience what makes the Diploma so special with a 1-to-1 tour of our Culinary School.
Watch Diploma-style demonstrations, meet the teachers and taste life at Leiths.
Our Admissions team love to answer your questions and offer course suggestions to suit your goals.
Sample culinary training Leiths-style with a hands-on class.
Made your decision? Book on a course here and start your future in food.
