Cook (Professional Cook 3) (Red Seal)
Cook (Professional Cook 3)
(Red Seal)
- How to order, organize and store food safely
- How to prepare and cook with a wide variety of ingredients
- How to experiment with different flavours and cuisines
- How to create dishes and plan menus
- How to prepare food for all sorts of customers, occasions and events
Cooks create the delicious dishes we have come to expect at restaurants. They aren’t afraid of fast-paced work—taking on the challenge of turning raw ingredients into wonderful creations.
As a Cook, you’re an artisan of food, taking dishes from concept to preparation and delivery. You’re an attentive individual, looking out for high standards in every meal you create, while showing your signature style.
You’ll be able to multi-task, shining when faced with the adrenaline rush of a tight deadline. This may be as part of a team in a small kitchen or as the lead at a large station.
For more information regarding the other levels in this progressive trade, please refer to the following program pages:
Updates
Program Updates:
March 2022: Program Update (Harmonization implementation postponed)
July 2021: Program Update (Harmonization implementation postponed)
July 2020: Program Update (Assessment Guidelines added to the Program Outline)
January 1, 2020: Program Update (Practical Assessment Document Update)
Note: A VALID FOODSAFE Level 1 Certification or equivalent is a pre-requisite to challenge this certification.
Professional Cook 3 Indigenous Content (PC3IC)
The Professional Cook 3 Indigenous Content (PC3IC) program outline was developed to introduce Indigenous culture through food gathering and preparation, and to bring back traditional knowledge. This program was designed so that apprentices can complete the level of apprenticeship training while learning the Indigenous culture from their specific area.
It is important to note that with respect to cultural and regional differences, Indigenous content may be adapted, but only with the recipes or regional ingredients. The context of the Indigenous content in the program outline must be followed as set forth.
Practical Assessment Information
As of January 1, 2020, all training providers are expected to use updated Practical Assessment documents that are dated January 2020; all previous documents are no longer relevant.
Details of the assessment criteria are contained within the Cook Assessment General Information package. Candidates can view the practical assessment preparation package for Menu A, Menu B, and Menu C.
Please note that there is a fee attached to the practical assessment for challengers and re-assessment for apprentices which is set by the training provider conducting the assessment and may range between $350-$500. A list of assessment venues is sent to you with your approval to challenge.
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Exam Information and Resources
Interprovincial Red Seal Exam
Updates:
- June 2022: Program Update (2019 Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS))
- A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2011 National Occupational Analysis (NOA), the 2015 NOA, and the 2019 RSOS can be found here.
Information:
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
- Active listening and monitoring
- Coordination and time management
- Menu planning, ordering and inventory
- Cost management and front-of-house procedures
- Preparing stocks, soups, sauces, meats, baked goods, desserts and beverages
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Painter and Decorator
Painter and
Decorator
- How to read specifications and estimate materials
- How to set up scaffolding and prepare surfaces
- How to repair cracks and holes in walls
- How to mix and thin paint to achieve different colours and textures
- How to apply paint, stain, lacquer, enamel, metal coating, wallpaper, and fabric
Painter and Decorators colour our world, bringing creativity to the structures around us. They turn drab surfaces into brilliant tapestries that serve all sorts of purposes for everyone to enjoy
As a Painter and Decorator, you’ll use your creative and attentive skills every day as you apply paintbrushes and rollers to surfaces. Your projects will come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from the beams of a bridge to painting a house interior.
You’ll enjoy the variety of this career, where you apply both artistry and precision with your eye for detail, good sense of colour and steady hand.
Program Updates:
May 2023: OPSN 2023 006 (Harmonization)
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
In effect starting September 1, 2023
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
- August 2024: OPSN 2024 020 (Harmonized Level 1&2 SLE Launch)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formulas
- Code Book required: none
Updates:
- August 2024: OPSN 2024 020 (Harmonized Level 1&2 SLE Launch)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formulas
- Code Book required: none
Updates:
- None
Information:
- National Occupational Analysis
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book required: none
Updates:
- September 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2011 NOA and 2021 RSOS can be found here.
Information:
- Red Seal Occupational Standard
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book required: none
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Project planning and business management
- Workplace hazard management
- Surface preparation and painting
- Colour theory application
- Application of wall coverings and finishes
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Hairstylist
Hairstylist
- How to cut, trim, perm, straighten and style hair
- How to colour hair, including bleaching, tinting, dying and streaking
- How to apply hair extensions
- How to analyze a client’s hair and scalp and recommend treatments and care
- How to recommend hairstyles and colours that suit a client’s features and preferences.
Hairstylists are attentive and creative tradespeople who help to shape the way we look and feel. They enjoy interacting with customers and working in a bustling environment.
As a Hairstylist, you’ll feel energized every time you meet a customer, sit them down and begin the process of designing their new look.
You’ll need to be friendly and precise, as you work with multiple clients every day. In addition to cutting and trimming, you’ll also be looked at as an expert in hair care.
Program Updates
August 2020: OPSN 2020 008 (Harmonization)
June 2020: Program Update (SkilledTradesBC Standardized Practical Assessment change)
Practical Assessment Information
In addition to the written examination, candidates are required to undertake a practical assessment. Details of the assessment criteria are contained within the Hairstylist Practical Assessment Information package.
Please note that there is a fee attached to the practical assessment which is set by the assessment agency and will be approximately $500.
To book a practical assessment, contact North Pacific at assessment [at] north-pacific.ca.
Foundation Program Information
The Foundation program for this trade requires a 300 hour practicum in order to meet completion requirements. Instructors will need to fill out this form for each Foundation student and send it in alongside their class marks.
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
As of July 2021, Interprovincial exams written for Hairstylist are aligned to the 2019 Hairstylist Red Seal Occupational Standard.
Information:
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Communication
- Client service and business management
- Hygiene, sanitation and disinfection
- Use and maintenance of tools and equipment
- Hair cutting, styling and colouring
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Professional Cook 2
Professional
Cook 2
- How to order, organize and store food safely
- How to prepare and cook with a wide variety of ingredients
- How to experiment with different flavours and cuisines
- How to create dishes and plan menus
- How to prepare food for all sorts of customers, occasions and events
Cooks create the delicious dishes we have come to expect at restaurants. They aren’t afraid of fast-paced work—taking on the challenge of turning raw ingredients into wonderful creations.
As a Cook, you’re an artisan of food, taking dishes from concept to preparation and delivery. You’re an attentive individual, looking out for high standards in every meal you create, while showing your signature style.
You’ll be able to multi-task, shining when faced with the adrenaline rush of a tight deadline. This may be as part of a team in a small kitchen or as the lead at a large station.
For more information regarding the other levels in this progressive trade, please refer to the following program pages:
Updates
Program Updates:
March 2022: Program Update (Harmonization implementation postponed)
July 2021: Program Update (Harmonization implementation postponed)
July 2020: Program Update (Assessment Guidelines added to the Program Outline)
January 1, 2020: Program Update (Practical Assessment Document Update)
Note: A VALID FOODSAFE Level 1 Certification or equivalent is a pre-requisite to challenge this certification.
Professional Cook 2 Indigenous Content (PC2IC)
The Professional Cook 2 Indigenous Content (PC2IC) program outline was developed to introduce Indigenous culture through food gathering and preparation, and to bring back traditional knowledge. This program was designed so that apprentices can complete the level of apprenticeship training while learning the Indigenous culture from their specific area.
It is important to note that with respect to cultural and regional differences, Indigenous content may be adapted, but only with the recipes or regional ingredients. The context of the Indigenous content in the program outline must be followed as set forth.
Practical Assessment Information
As of January 1, 2020, all training providers are expected to use updated Practical Assessment documents that are dated January 2020; all previous documents are no longer relevant.
Details of the assessment criteria are contained within the Cook Assessment General Information package. Candidates can view the practical assessment preparation package for Menu A, Menu B, and Menu C.
Please note that there is a fee attached to the practical assessment for challengers and re-assessment for apprentices which is set by the training provider conducting the assessment and may range between $350-$500. A list of assessment venues is sent to you with your approval to challenge.
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Exam Information and Resources
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Active listening and monitoring
- Coordination and time management
- Menu planning, ordering and inventory
- Cost management and front-of-house procedures
- Preparing stocks, soups, sauces, meats, baked goods, desserts and beverages
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Professional Cook 1
Professional
Cook 1
- How to order, organize and store food safely
- How to prepare and cook with a wide variety of ingredients
- How to experiment with different flavours and cuisines
- How to create dishes and plan menus
- How to prepare food for all sorts of customers, occasions and events
Cooks create the delicious dishes we have come to expect at restaurants. They aren’t afraid of fast-paced work—taking on the challenge of turning raw ingredients into wonderful creations.
As a Cook, you’re an artisan of food, taking dishes from concept to preparation and delivery. You’re an attentive individual, looking out for high standards in every meal you create, while showing your signature style.
You’ll be able to multi-task, shining when faced with the adrenaline rush of a tight deadline. This may be as part of a team in a small kitchen or as the lead at a large station.
For more information regarding the other levels in this progressive trade, please refer to the following program pages:
Program Updates
Program Updates:
March 2022: Program Update (Harmonization implementation postponed)
July 2021: Program Update (Harmonization implementation postponed)
July 2020: Program Update (Assessment Guidelines added to the Program Outline)
January 1, 2020: Program Update (Practical Assessment Document Update)
Note: A VALID FOODSAFE Level 1 Certification or equivalent is a pre-requisite to challenge this certification.
Professional Cook 1 Indigenous Content (PC1IC)
The Professional Cook 1 Indigenous Content (PC1IC) program outline was developed to introduce Indigenous culture through food gathering and preparation, and to bring back traditional knowledge. This program was designed so that apprentices can complete the level of apprenticeship training while learning the Indigenous culture from their specific area.
It is important to note that with respect to cultural and regional differences, Indigenous content may be adapted, but only with the recipes or regional ingredients. The context of the Indigenous content in the program outline must be followed as set forth.
Practical Assessment Information
As of January 1, 2020, all training providers are expected to use updated Practical Assessment documents that are dated January 2020; all previous documents are no longer relevant.
Details of the assessment criteria are contained within the Cook Assessment General Information package. Candidates can view the practical assessment preparation package for Menu A and Menu B.
Please note that there is a fee attached to the practical assessment for challengers and re-assessment for apprentices which is set by the training provider conducting the assessment and may range between $350-$500. A list of assessment venues is sent to you with your approval to challenge.
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Exam Information and Resources
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Active listening and monitoring
- Coordination and time management
- Menu planning, ordering and inventory
- Cost management and front-of-house procedures
- Preparing stocks, soups, sauces, meats, baked goods, desserts and beverages
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Meatcutter
Meatcutter
- How to cut, trim and prepare standard cuts of meat
- How to grind meats and slice cooked meats
- How to cure, smoke, tenderize and preserve meat
- How to order and manage inventory
- How to inspect, handle, prepare and store meat safely
Meatcutters care deeply about the food we eat. They not only prepare the various cuts of meat with great precision, but also teach us about animal products, contributing to healthy lifestyles.
As a Meatcutter, you’ll continue one of the world’s oldest trades as you prepare and handle various animal products.
You’ll be an expert in safety and hygiene, as well as an inventive and creative artisan. You’ll also be on your feet working behind the scenes in a refrigerated room or behind a retail counter sharing your expert knowledge and filling orders.
Program Updates
August 2020: Changes to the Program Outline and Assessment Guidelines
A VALID FOODSAFE Level 1 Certification or equivalent is a pre-requisite to challenge this certification.
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Information:
Information:
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Safety and sanitation standards
- Inventory and cost controls
- Meat science and nutrition
- Inspecting, grading, handling and storage
- Cutting procedures for beef, veal, pork, lamb, poultry, fish and game
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
Funeral Director
Funeral
Director
- How to plan and schedule funeral services
- How to preserve and prepare human remains
- How to coordinate burials and cremations
- How to speak to grieving families about funeral arrangements
- How to manage funeral home operations and staff
Funeral Directors are caring and expressive people, whose poise, tact and empathy make them a perfect fit to lead all aspects of a funeral service.
As a Funeral Director, you are tasked with working with families to coordinate aspects of the funeral service—from preparing the body through to burial or cremation.
This important role requires great care, as you must ensure that funeral rites are completed and remains are stored, handled and moved respectfully. You’ll work with families to determine what funeral journey works best for them.
No challenge process is currently available for this certification. This decision is currently under review. For further information please contact the BC Funeral Association on 1-250-592-3213 and at info [at] bcfunerals.com (info[at]bcfunerals[dot]com).
Program Updates
August 2024: Instructor requirements for this program were updated. Please see the Program Update for more details.
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Information:
Information:
- Funeral practices, law and service ethics
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Safety, sanitation and hygiene practices
- Communications and business management
- Embalming theory
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.
Baker
Baker
- How to prepare doughs and batters
- How to decorate cakes and other treats
- How to ensure consistent quality across large quantities of baked goods
- How to operate large mixers, ovens and other small-scale industrial equipment
- How to order, organize and store food safely
Bakers are creative individuals, who can follow and create a recipe—often on the spot. They take great pride in their hands-on, challenging work, which is on display every day for customers to enjoy.
As a Baker, you’re a master of time management—fast and precise, able to produce baked goods under tight timelines. You’re also constantly multitasking, from receiving and measuring ingredients to preparing batters and doughs, baking and decorating.
You might find yourself working with other Bakers in a retail or bakery, leading the baking at a hotel or restaurant, or running your own business.
Program Updates:
- March 2024: For information regarding transition, please see the Program Update and Transition Plan
- February 2024: OPSN 2024 004 (Harmonization)
Note: A VALID FOODSAFE Level 1 Certification or equivalent is a pre-requisite to challenge this certification.
Harmonized Program (2024) Information and Resources
Harmonized Program (2024) Information and Resources
In effect starting September 1, 2024
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
- November 2024: OPSN 2024 027 (Baker Harmonized Level 1 & 2 SLE Launch)
- March 2024: Standardized Level Exams will be deactivated on September 1, 2024, until Harmonized Standardized Level Exams are implemented.
Information:
Updates:
- November 2024: OPSN 2024 027 (Baker Harmonized Level 1 & 2 SLE Launch)
- March 2024: Standardized Level Exams will be deactivated on September 1, 2024, until Harmonized Standardized Level Exams are implemented.
Information:
Updates:
- None
Information:
Updates:
- December 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2023 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2015 NOA and 2023 RSOS can be found here.
Information:
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Monitoring and active learning
- Safe food storage and handling
- Merchandising, inventory, and sales
- Baked goods materials, principles and terminology
- Assembly, icing and decoration
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.
Automotive Refinishing Technician
Automotive Refinishing
Technician
- How to use lifting, mixing and spray tools and equipment
- How to use welding equipment
- How to create a work plan and organize materials
- How to remove and install vehicle components
- How to prepare surfaces and apply finishes
Automotive Refinishing Technicians are creative and expressive professionals who put the finishing touches on repaired and restored vehicles.
As an Automotive Refinishing Technician, you’ll work on a range of vehicles, providing the final restoration steps once body work has been completed.
You’ll prepare vehicles for final coats and removing vehicle components in preparation. You’ll also become a creative master in paint jobs, going through the preparation steps and applying the fine-tuned layer technique and colour matching.
Program Updates
January 2022: Transition Update (Year 2)
November 2020: Transition Plan
June 2020: OPSN 2020 006 Harmonized Program
Harmonization Updates
Level 1 - Harmonized*
Level 2 - Harmonized*
*Harmonized = Program stream with re-aligned content beginning in April 2021
If you are unclear as to what program you are registered in, or unclear as to which program you should be following, please contact Customer Service.
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
In effect starting April 1, 2021
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
- June 2022: OPSN 2022 011 (Harmonized Level 1 SLE Launch)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms
- Code book required: none
Updates:
- None
Information:
- Red Seal Occupational Standard
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book required: none
Program Information
Program Information
Detailed program information prior to its transition to the harmonized program.
Challenge the Trade
Challenge the Trade
If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.
OR
If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Detail-oriented
- Care and precision
- Vehicle exterior preparation
- Vehicle painting
- Component removal and installation
To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools.