Supporting Northern Ireland’s Food Industry
FDQ is recognised as a regulated awarding organisation by CCEA in Northern Ireland and we are proud to serve the nation’s food industry that comprises over 24,000 employees generating over £5 billion in sales.
FDQ works with some of the largest industry employers supporting food safety and other regulatory qualifications such as animal welfare (WATOK). We also have a network of approved centres comprising independent training providers and regional colleges that support apprentices and learners throughout the nation.
Our qualifications are focussed on supporting the Skills Agenda in Northern Ireland, by equipping learners with the skills and knowledge employers need.
If your organisation needs a more tailored approach – such as additional qualifications or recognition for your own training programmes, please get in touch
Qualifications and Apprenticeships
The majority of the qualifications that support food-related apprenticeships in Northern
Ireland are provided by FDQ, especially at levels 2 and 3.
To explore our range of approved qualifications available in Northern Ireland, click here.
All FDQ qualifications are delivered and assessed in English. Irish Gaelic versions can be made available where there is sufficient demand.
As a food specialist awarding organisation with twenty years experience in the sector we
are committed to supporting the food industry during the Government’s plan to review and
reform the apprenticeship system in Northern Ireland.
New Qualification for Professional Chefs in Northern Ireland!
We are pleased to announce that CCEA Regulation have approved our brand-new qualification the FDQ Level 2 Diploma in Professional Chef (Northern Ireland).
FDQ have liaised with the Curriculum Hub for Hospitality and Tourism in Northern Ireland and are excited to announce the launch and implementation of this new qualification.
The qualification was accredited at the end of 2020 and is operational and available to centres from 1 February 2021. The qualification may be assessed in a workplace or learning environment.
FDQ may be new to the hospitality sector, but this qualification includes elements of the baking, butchery, and fish preparation skills that FDQ’s tradition and strengths are built on.
To find out more about the qualification, contact us or click here to see the full specification
Northern Ireland Events
FDQ are keen to stay up to date with the needs of businesses and learners in Northern Ireland. Normally we hold at least one annual event supporting food industry apprenticeships and qualifications across the nation. Although COVID has made this less practical we are looking into hosting virtual events to support our centres.