Why study this subject?
Food and drink is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK. Many employment opportunities within this field are available including Sports Science, Food Technology, Food Marketing, Dietetics and Environmental Health to name a few. This course is ideal for students who are
creative and enjoy cooking, although you do not need to be Mary Berry or Michel Roux Jnr. GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition is not essential, although the course builds on previous knowledge. It would help if students had some scientific background, particularly chemistry as the course covers the structure of each nutrient and the chemical changes during cooking processes. An interest in food and food establishments is essential.
The course will include:
There is an opportunity to learn through the acquisition of knowledge about the relationship between the human body and food as well as practical cooking and preparing food. The qualification has been designed around the concept of a ‘plan, do, review’ approach to learning. The course includes a high practical input and students will be required to develop and enhance their ICT skills.
Student profile:
Students who choose Level 3 Food Science and Nutrition must be interested in food, health, and science and enjoy both practical and theoretical learning. They must have a passion for cooking, healthy eating, fitness, or biology, and want to understand how food choices affect the body and overall wellbeing. This course suits learners who are curious, organised, and creative, and who enjoy working independently or as part of a team. It is ideal for those considering careers in nutrition, dietetics, food science, catering, hospitality, public health, sports science, teaching, etc., or for anyone who wants to gain valuable knowledge and skills for everyday life.
How is the course assessed?
Assessment Year 12
• Unit 1 – External examination – 25% weighting – 1 hour 30 minutes (80 marks)
• Unit 2 – Internal non-examination assessment – 25% weighting – 11 hours 30 minutes.
Year 13
• Unit 3 – External examination – 25% weighting – 1 hour 30 minutes (80 marks)
• Unit 4 or 5 – Internal non-examination assessment – 25% weighting – 12 hours.