Learn to cook and find out about careers in the culinary arts!

Join our free Chef Apprentice Program for high school students in the 11th and 12th grades*

Download current flyer and application form.

Our culinary arts program for teens, the Chef Apprentice Program is a free program designed for students currently in the 11th and 12th grades at all Santa Barbara schools. It teaches students healthy nutritional and cooking skills they'll need as they look forward to living on their own after high school.

The program provides a full spectrum view of the culinary arts profession in a safe, nurturing, healthy, and fun environment for teens after their schooldays end. 

Professional chefs teach students to use fresh fruit, vegetables, and meats as they learn about meal preparation. After each class, students are able to take home the meals they have prepared to share with their families.

Presentations and Field Trips Include

• Health and safety standards
• Nutrition and dietary planning
• Practical and basic skills for food preparation
• Bread and cake making and cake decoration
• Canning fruits and vegetables
• Budget development
• Fancy napkin folding, floral design, and table setting
• Trip to organic food market for tour and samples
• Tour and presentation by a chef at a 4-star hotel
• Tour a cruise ship
• Visit SBCC's Culinary Arts and Hotel Management program
• Cater at a special event

Program Details 

There are two choices for students: Monday classes at the Franklin Neighborhood Center, or Tuesday classes at the Westside Neighborhood Center.

Mondays from 3:45–6:30PM
January 9–May 1, 2017
Franklin Neighborhood Center 
1136 East Montecito Street (view Google Map)
With Chef Ryan Siliman

Tuesdays from 4:15–7:00PM
February 7–May 9, 2017
Westside Neighborhood Center 
423 West Victoria Street (view in Google Map)
With Chef Don Hardin of Jolly Brothers Catering Co.

How to Apply

To apply for the Chef Apprentice Program, please fill out an application form

Questions and Further Information

If you have questions, please contact program coordinator Anita Dominocielo-Ho at AHo@SantaBarbaraCA.gov or (805) 451-2928 office phone / (805) 451-2928 mobile.

You can also download a PDF of this year's Chef Apprentice Program flyer for more information.