Frequently Asked Questions
The Coach House
Newliston
Edinburgh EH29 9EB
+44 (0)131 333 5001
info@esfw.com
If your question is not mentioned here, please do get in touch by phone or email.
Does ESFW have age limits?
For short courses up to one week in length anyone over 16 can apply. In general for the longer courses students must be 17 or over.
Where is ESFW?
See our Location Map and Direction page.
Which ESFW course will suit me?
An indication of who the course is aimed at is given on the course pages, but if you are wondering if you are suited to a particular course we suggest that you telephone the school to discuss it with the staff. You could also make an appointment to come and see the school and meet the ESFW team.
Does ESFW train Chalet Hosts?
Our Intensive Certificate Course is specifically designed with Chalet Hosts in mind. It is recognised as being great training by the ski companies.
"Ski Activity is always proud to use ESFW for sourcing highly trained and reliable chalet hosts to run our chalets in the Alps. We provide a high standard of hospitality and ESFW's students always come out top!" Sammi Nisbet, Ski Activity
Do I have to bring any ingredients or equipment?
No, all ingredients and equipment are provided by ESFW.
What should I wear?
For short courses please wear comfortable loose fitting clothes (trousers are advisable) and flat, comfortable shoes. You will be lent (or can buy) an ESFW apron. Remember that you may be standing for long periods and the kitchen can become very warm.
For longer courses you will be provided with a uniform but please remember to wear flat, comfortable shoes.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes, click here to find out more.
Do the fees include VAT?
Yes, unless stated otherwise.
How and when do I pay?
For all short courses, one day courses and evening classes the fees must be paid in full at the time of application in order to secure your place. The Intensive Certificate and Diploma courses require booking fees which are payable with the initial application (you may either send your remittance with the form or phone through your credit card details to secure your place). The balance of fees for all courses requiring a booking fee is payable by the applicant in full, not later than four weeks before the start of the course. See our How to Pay page for further details.
What happens if I have to cancel my booking?
We have a cancellations policy in our terms and conditions.
I'm worried, as I really can’t cook at all.
Don't worry, our small group policy enables us to provide individual attention, thus enabling the complete beginner to grasp the basics.
Do you teach food hygiene courses?
Yes, all Intensive Certificate and Diploma course students are required to attend and pass the Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland (REHIS) Elementary Food Hygiene examination to gain the REHIS certificate. We also run the REHIS courses as a one-day course for any other interested parties to attend.
Do you provide other facilities?
Yes, we have our own Bell Tower Dining Room which caters for corporate and private events throughout the year. We also run outside catering contracts all year round.
I've heard of The Edinburgh Cookery School - are they realated to ESFW?
ESFW was previously known as The Edinburgh Cookery School but changed it's name to the Edinburgh School of Food & Wine a few years ago.
Who owns the Edinburgh School of Food & Wine?
ESFW was founded by Jill Davidson in 1987. The school has been privately run by Jill ever since. It is located in the Coach House, in the grounds of Newliston House. This derelict property was renovated especially to accommodate the school.
2003-2008 © Edinburgh School of Food & Wine
E&OE