Food

Rationale

Food Studies at The John Wallis Church of England Academy combines practical skill with an understanding of nutrition, food choice and the wider food industry.

Pupils learn how to prepare and cook a range of dishes safely and confidently, developing increasing independence in the kitchen. Alongside this practical work, they explore the principles of healthy eating, the nutritional value of different foods and the factors that influence the choices people make about what they eat.

The subject also encourages pupils to think more widely about food. They consider issues such as sustainability, seasonality, culture, cost, food provenance and the environmental impact of production and consumption.

Food Studies develops practical competence, organisation, creativity and problem-solving. It equips pupils with valuable knowledge for everyday life while also introducing them to the wide range of opportunities available within hospitality, catering, nutrition and the food industry.

Aims

Through Food Studies, pupils will:

• develop confidence and independence in preparing and cooking food

• use kitchen equipment safely and accurately

• apply a range of practical techniques with increasing skill

• understand the principles of nutrition and healthy eating

• recognise how different ingredients contribute to the nutritional value of a dish

• plan and prepare food for different needs, occasions and audiences

• understand the importance of food safety, hygiene and safe working practices

• explore the cultural, social and economic influences on food choice

• consider sustainability, seasonality, provenance and food waste

• evaluate dishes and use feedback to improve future outcomes

• develop organisation, time management and problem-solving skills

• gain an understanding of careers and opportunities within food, hospitality and related industries.