Academy of Cheese Level 1

Learn to taste cheese like a pro

Do you have a passion for cheese? Expand your knowledge with The Academy of Cheese Level 1 course.

On this course you’ll learn how cheese is made, how to assess its quality and you'll develop an understanding of the provenance and range of cheeses available. You will study 25 iconic cheeses before you’re ready to sit your online exam and gain your Academy of Cheese Associate certification. The course will introduce you to the Academy’s own Structured Approach to Tasting cheese and you will discover a range of tools to help you communicate more effectively about cheese.

What to expect

You will compete the course in day and will be taught by Academy of Cheese® Training Educator Charlie Turnbull.

Charlie is a founding director of Academy of Cheese and one the foremost cheese experts in the UK. He will take you through the basics of how cheese is made, how to make a great cheese board selection and the flavours and profiles of the level one syllabus of 25 cheeses.

You'll taste 12 classic cheeses and learn about cheese in a fun and friendly atmosphere. The course is supported by specialist training materials from the Academy of Cheese.

You will also be shown how to expertly pair cheese with wine.

The day will run from 10am to 5.30 pm with a 45 minute lunch break

Who’s it for?

Anybody with an interest in Cheese! Level 1 is ideal for anyone who wants to understand the basics of cheese and cheesemaking. It's also a great stepping-stone for anybody whose career involves the preparation, serving or selling of cheese.

Is there an exam?

Yes, to be certified candidates will need to take the Academy of Cheese® Level 1 Associate exam after completing the course. Attendees need to read the learning text, like your WSET courses, before or after the day.  Extra study is needed to pass the exam. This exam can be taken online, at home and at the convenience of the student. Candidates who successfully complete the exam will receive a certificate and badge - as well as the right to say they are qualified in cheese!

 What's included in the course fee of £225?

• Full-day classroom course delivered by our certified Academy of Cheese® training partner Charlie Turnbull
• Tasting of 12 cheeses
• Learn about 25 different cheese styles
• Copy of the level one cheese book detailing 25 different cheese styles
• Additional learning resources including study guide and flavour wheels
• Access to the Academy of Cheese online and online cheese library
• The level one associate exam fee (taken online in your own time)
• Certificate and pin badge (upon successful completion of the exam)

Take your knowledge of cheese to the next level.

Please advise of any dietary requirements upon booking. Due to the nature of this course it is not recommended for anybody with a dairy intolerance.