Food Science and Nutrition Level 3
STATEMENT OF INTENT FOR FOOD SCIENCE AND NUTRITION LEVEL 3
Charters School Food Science and Nutrition students will gain an understanding which is relevant to many industries and job roles. Care providers and nutritionists in hospitals use this knowledge, as do sports coaches and fitness instructors. Hotels and restaurants, food manufacturers and government agencies also use this understanding to develop menus, food products and policies that that support healthy eating initiatives.
Each unit within the qualification has an applied purpose which acts as a focus for the learning in the unit. The applied purpose demands authentic work-related learning in each of the available units. It also requires learners to consider how the use and application of their learning impacts on themselves, other individuals, employers, society and the environment.
The applied purpose will also enable learners to learn in such a way that they develop:
- Skills required for independent learning and development
- Skills to ensure their own dietary health and well being
- A range of generic and transferable skills
- The ability to solve problems
- Tthe skills of project-based research, development and presentation
- The ability to apply mathematical and ICT skills
- The fundamental ability to work alongside other professionals, in a professional environment
SUMMARY OF CURRICULUM
This course combines science and practical skills to explore the world of food. Students study nutrition, food safety, diet and health, and the impact of food choices on society. Through hands-on experiments, cooking, and research, students develop practical, analytical, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for both further study and careers in the food sector.
COURSE DETAILS
You will complete three units: two mandatory and one optional, over the two years.
The first mandatory unit: Unit 1 Meeting Nutritional Needs of Specific Groups will enable you to demonstrate an understanding of the science of food safety, nutrition and nutritional needs in a wide range of contexts, and through on–going practical sessions, to gain practical skills to produce quality food items to meet the needs of individuals.
The second mandatory unit: Unit 2 Ensuring Food is Safe to Eat will allow you to develop your understanding of the science of food safety and hygiene; essential knowledge for anyone involved in food production in the home or wishing to work in the food industry. Again, practical sessions will support the gaining of theoretical knowledge and ensure learning is a tactile experience.
Studying one of the two optional units - Unit 3 Experimenting to Solve Food Production Problems or Unit 4 Current Issues in Food Science and Nutrition - will allow you the opportunity to study subjects of particular interest or relevance to you, building on previous learning and experiences.
KEY STAGE 5 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
The minimum entry requirements for Charters Sixth Form can be viewed here
EXAM BOARD: WJEC
BE INSPIRED
Complimentary Subjects
These are subjects that pair well with this qualification, helping you build a strong academic / vocational portfolio:
Biology (helps with understanding human physiology, microbiology, nutritional science)
Chemistry (food chemistry, reactions, processing)
Physical Education / Sport Science (nutrition for performance, body composition)
Health & Social Care (diet, health, public nutrition)
Design & Technology / Food Technology (skills in food product design, innovation)
Mathematics and English (for analysis, written reports, research)
Future Opportunities
After completing the Diploma / Certificate, students can progress to:
Higher Education: courses such as BSc (Hons) Food Science & Technology, Human Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, Dietetics, Food Safety / Quality Assurance.
Apprenticeships / employment in related sectors: food manufacturing, food safety regulation, government/public health, nutrition consultancy, hospitality, product development.
Further Level 3 or professional qualifications, for those who wish to focus more deeply in research, dietetics, or industrial roles.
Be inspired by exploring further
Explore these resources to broaden your understanding of food, health and nutrition:
BOOKS
Gut by Giulia Enders – a fun and accessible look at how our digestive system works.
Food Rules by Michael Pollan – simple tips to think differently about what we eat.
The Diet Myth by Tim Spector – how gut microbes influence health and nutrition.
WATCH
Cooked (Netflix) – explores the science of cooking through fire, water, air and earth.
The Truth About Food (BBC) – a science-based look at how diet impacts health.
PODCASTS
Gastropod – fascinating stories about food, history and science.
The Food Programme (BBC Radio 4) – explores current issues in food and nutrition.