Ready to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and experience what it's like to work in a culinary
camp?
Our Chef in Training (CIT) Program gives teens hands-on experience working alongside our chefs and
counsellors, learning the essential skills needed to support a busy kitchen and its campers.
What Will You Do?
80% Kitchen Operations
● Prepare ingredients and organize cooking stations.
● Assist chefs with food preparation.
● Practice kitchen safety and sanitation.
● Help with cleaning, dishes, and daily kitchen operations.
20% Camper Support & Leadership
● Assist younger campers during activities.
● Encourage teamwork and participation.
● Develop communication and problem-solving skills.
Good to Know: This is a training program, not a traditional cooking camp. CITs learn how a kitchen
operates, which includes preparation, organization, cleaning, and teamwork.
Program Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Fridays: 9:00am - 6:00pm (through graduation)
Fees:
One Week: $495 + tax
Two Weeks: $895 + Tax
Your Pathway to Employment
After successfully completing at least two weeks of the CIT Program and receiving an endorsement from their supervising team, participants may become eligible to apply for an on-call position with Rooks to Cooks, subject to employment eligibility and available opportunities.
Completion does not guarantee employment.
13 GTA locations to choose from: Bathurst & Lawrence | Little Italy (College & Bathurst) | East York/Danforth | Etobicoke | High Park | Markham/Unionville | Rosedale | North York - Bayview | North York - Yonge | Richmond Hill | Thornhill | Roncesvalles | Mississauga Studio (Heartland)
1. Explore the Program
Review the 2027 CIT Program information with your parent or guardian to decide if it's right for you.
2. Submit Your Application
Complete and submit the short 2027 CIT readiness application.
3. Recieve an Offer
Our team will review your application and contact your family regarding the outcome.
4. Register for the Program
Once accepted, your parent or guardian can complete registration to secure your CIT spot.
Applications are now open!
Do CIT's cook all day?
No! CITs spend approximately 80% of their time supporting kitchen operations and 20% assisting with camper activities.
Responsibilities include ingredient preparation, kitchen setup, cleaning, teamwork, and camper support.
CITs also receive three scheduled breaks throughout the day.
The program is designed to introduce teens to a working kitchen environment while remaining age-
appropriate.
How is CIT different from regular camp?
Unlike traditional campers, CITs work primarily behind the scenes alongside our Sous Chefs.
Rather than preparing recipes for themselves, they develop practical kitchen skills, independence, teamwork, and leadership through structured mentorship.
The CIT Program also offers a potential pathway to future employment.
How is CIT different from volunteering?
CITs follow a structured training program with specific learning objectives, mentorship, and hands-on activities.
Volunteers assist with general camp needs, such as setup, cleaning, and supporting campers, without the same structured program curriculum.
Can you accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Yes! Please provide allergy or dietary information during registration so our team can review appropriate accommodations.
Because CITs aren't preparing standard camper recipes for themselves, they don't need to register with a cooking buddy.
Can selective or picky eaters participate?
Absolutely! CITs aren't required to eat everything they help prepare.
Our team uses a no-to low-pressure approach, encouraging food exploration without forcing anyone to try unfamiliar foods.
Can my child attend more than one week?
Yes! Each week offers different recipes, activities, and learning opportunities.
CITs can continue building their culinary and leadership skills over multiple weeks.
Does my child need previous cooking experience?
Some familiarity with basic kitchen safety is recommended, but professional cooking experience is not required.
We're looking for responsible, enthusiastic teens who can follow instructions, take initiative, and are eager to learn.
Why is there an application?
Our short readiness application helps us understand each applicant's interests, basic kitchen knowledge, and problem-solving abilities.
With only two CITs per location each week, we want to ensure participants are prepared for the responsibilities of the program and receive meaningful mentorship.
Can CIT's become Rooks to Cooks employees?
After completing at least two weeks and receiving an endorsement from their supervising team, CITs may become eligible to apply for an on-call position, subject to employment eligibility and available opportunities.
Participation does not guarantee employment.
My child has a medical condition, disability, or additional support needs. Can accommodations be provided?
Rooks to Cooks is committed to providing equitable and safe access to our programs.
Please contact us before registration to discuss your child's individual needs. Our team will work with your family to explore appropriate accommodations and, where needed, develop an Individualized Support Plan.
Depending on individual circumstances, additional support arrangements may be considered. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, with consideration for accessibility, safety, and the needs of each participant.
What are the program hours?
Monday–Thursday: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM, including graduation.
How much does the CIT Program cost?
● One week: $495 + applicable taxes
● Two weeks: $895 + applicable taxes
Does submitting an application guarantee a spot?
No. Applications are reviewed individually, and spaces are limited to two CITs per location, per week.
Successful applicants will receive an offer of acceptance before completing registration.