While we have seen a spike in the number of cooking schools opening around the U.S.A, pastry schools have not seen the same interest. Though some of these cooking schools are including a pastry programs in their curriculum, it is considered an afterthought instead of a primary educational mission. That said, a good pastry school will offer intensive training over a period of time from three months for a short certificate program to two years for an associate’s degree in pastry arts.

Consider attending pastry school.

The quality of the instructor could make or break the program. A great instructor can turn a plain vanilla curriculum into an all-immersive experience for each student. That’s why it’s important to visit each school being considered. This is your chance to see how students are interacting with instructors. Don’t waste time with the admissions staff beyond what’s absolutely necessary. Since it is the admissions department job to try to sell prospective students on the school, you may not be receiving unbiased information. Rather, see if it’s possible to sit in on a typical class. Observe how the students and instructor are interacting. You should be able to tell immediately whether or not students are totally focused on learning and baking.

If a culinary school does not allow sit-ins or class visits, you should go on the Internet to find out if the schools alumni have blogs or other writings. Schools should have a list of alumni who would be glad to speak with you about their time at pastry school.

See what you could learn in pastry school.

Following these tactics should be very helpful in your search for a superior pastry school. After a school has been chosen, the next question becomes “How will I afford it”? If a dedicated pastry arts program is too expensive, a community college is a good place to look to take some courses in baking or pastry arts. While instructors at a community college may not have the reputation of instructors at a pastry school, they may still be great teachers. For those who aspire to work in a top-tier bakery, attending a premier baking and pastry school will provide the best opportunity.

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