Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?

Below we've answered a number of questions that we are frequently asked, in case you may be wondering them too. If you have any other queries, or want to find out a bit more, then get in touch using our buttons at the bottom of the page.

Why should I book with Fresh Tracks?

Fresh Tracks is not just about learning to cook, it is about learning to be a good chalet host. Of course we will help you practice cooking for large groups, discuss the top tips on how to run an efficient chalet kitchen and give you the opportunity to gain your Level Two Food Hygiene Certificate, however we will also provide you with the knowledge and skills to carry out all the other tasks involved in running a chalet. We cover a vast range of topics and focus on the hosting skills you need to make sure your guests are well catered for and your employer is impressed. We are based in Cornwall so we have a fantastic location for you to train in, we aren’t too expensive and we pride ourselves on the fact that the team are existing chalet hosts and have a wealth of experience so know exactly what it takes to run a chalet and make the most of a winter season.

What is included in the course fee?

The course fee, includes:

• Transfer to and from Newquay airport or Bodmin Parkway Train Station

• 5 nights' accommodation, including a set of bathroom towels and linen

• Tuition throughout the week

• Our comprehensive course manual and recipe book to take away with you

• Your Level Two Food Hygiene Certificate

• The online “Getting A Job” course, worth £50 (and includes our Chalet Host CV Writing Kit)

• A personalised reference

• All of your food (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and a 3/4 course evening meal)

If you choose to participate in any other activities during the week then you will be required to pay for transport to, and participation in, any of these excursions (although you might be able to arrange a group activity and split any costs!). 

How do I book on a course?

You can book online, via our Course Dates page on the website. Availability of the courses is shown so, once you select the date you want to come and join us, simply click on that date and follow the instructions to confirm your place. Booking online will require the full balance for payment.

Alternatively you can reserve a place with a non-refundable deposit of £300. To do this please give us a call or drop us an email. We will then be able to confirm availability and send you a booking form to complete. The outstanding balance payment will be requested 8 weeks prior to the start date of your course.

What do I need to bring with me?

A positive attitude, a willingness to work hard and a good sense of humour is almost all you will need to see you though, as well as:

• A comfy pair of closed-toe shoes

• Comfortable clothes to wear during the day

• A laptop or tablet if you wish to apply for jobs and work on your CV (recommended)

Depending on how you spend your free time, we would also recommend:

• Warm clothes and a waterproof

• Swimwear, a beach towel, suncream, (you could also bring a wetsuit if you have one)

• A good pair of walking shoes

• Sportswear in case you want to use the gym, tennis courts or go for a run

There are plenty of villages and towns nearby so if you need cash or any essentials you will be able to get hold of some.

Do I have to share a room?

We now offer the opportunity to book a private room and at an additional cost. All our rooms have shared bathrooms the number of which varies depending on the property you are assigned to. If you do not book the private room then you may be expected to share. Couples will have there own room at no additional cost, with a double bed where possible.

I am a vegetarian/vegan, can I still book on the course?

We cater for dietary requirements at Fresh Tracks in exactly the same way as we do in a chalet. This means that if you're a vegetarian or vegan, we have no trouble catering for you (it's great practice!), although you will be required to handle and serve meat dishes throughout the week.

If you are a Coeliac, or have any food intolerance’s or allergies, please let us know and we will accommodate you. If you have a severe allergy please call us to discuss, but there is no reason why we can’t accommodate you. (Again its great practice).

Will I get any spare time?

It is a pretty busy week and there is a lot to learn but we like to think you deserve a bit of time out to make the most of being in Cornwall! We will aim for you to have a couple of hours every afternoon free to either relax and unwind or to go out and enjoy the surroundings. There are no theory lessons scheduled for Wednesday afternoons so you may chose to take the opportunity to venture further afield, perhaps popping into the popular town of Padstow, or booking on a local activity such as surfing lessons or coasteering.  As our courses are tailored to the needs of the group, if individuals or the whole group would like further tuition on a particular subject then this can be arranged during this free period.

How do I get to the venue?

You can fly to Newquay airport or catch a train to Bodmin Parkway. From here we can either arrange a taxi or car hire for you, or we can come and pick you up. You will need to confirm your arrival time as soon as possible, but please be aware that you may be required to wait at the airport or train station if you are being collected by us. Once you have booked we will confirm pick up times so that you can make travel appropriate arrangements.

There is parking available at the venue and therefore you are welcome to drive. Please drop us an email or give us a call for driving directions.  Arrival and departure times for self-drivers can be more flexible, but rooms will not be available before 5pm on your start date and you will need to vacate your room by 10am on your departure date.

Still got a question? Ask us and we'll answer it!