Culinary Arts

The Culinary Arts program is a competency based, Chapter 74 approved program, which incorporates all six strands of the Massachusetts Department of Education Vocational Technical Education Frameworks for Culinary Arts and prepares students for entry-level positions in the food service industry.   Students are provided a solid foundation which includes a wide range of culinary techniques, menu planning, costs, baking, as well as restaurant management and the principals of great customer service.

With safety a top priority, students are instructed on safety practices from the first day of class and earn OSHA 10, ServeSafe, and Allergen Awareness certification by the end of junior year.  Along with safety, students receive instruction that includes embedded academics in mathematics, reading and writing, and chemistry in which students are able to see the interconnectedness of vocational training and their academic courses that leads to an understanding of the holistic nature of vocational education. 

Recognizing that students need more than technical skills and knowledge to experience success in the workplace, students at Dean study employability skills that include mock interviews, time management strategies and workplace communication, as well as topics in management, marketing, and entrepreneurship for those wanting to start their own business.  The curriculum is rounded out with an overview of technological skills that includes presentation software, spreadsheet preparation, Google and 365 platforms, and other commonly used business applications.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to practice the skills and knowledge gained through cooking and serving lunch at the HHS Dean Campus Café as well as participating and facilitating on and off-campus catering events.  This real-world application, guided by instructors and within the learning environment, prepares students for senior year when eligible students are able to participate in Cooperative Education or Internship placements at area restaurants and facilities where food service is provided.

All vocational opportunities at Dean are offered without regard to race, color, sex, gender-identity, religion, national origin, English language proficiency, disability, sexual orientation, or homelessness status.

 Career Opportunities

  •  Server                                                       

  • Chef/Head Cook                               

  • Executive Chef

  • Restaurant Manager                           

  • Sous Chef                                           

  • Dietary Aide

  • Dietitian/Nutritionist                          

  • Food/Beverage Manager              

  • Caterer

  • Food Writer

  • Food Sales Representative

  • Food Truck Operator