Examination Board: AQA
This specification aims to attract pupils to study Food preparation and Nutrition by offering an interesting and stimulating programme of study.
This course allows students to develop and extend their practical skills and knowledge of:
- Food, nutrition and health
- Food science
- Food safety
- Food choice
- Food provenance
During the course pupils will be given the opportunity to practise a wide range of skills along with having a greater understanding of nutrition, the science behind food as a material and wider environmental aspect associated with food.
Assessment structure:
Written examination: 50% of GCSE
1 hour 45 minutes – 100 marks
Multiple choice questions (20 marks) and five questions each with a number of sub questions (80 marks)
Non – examination assessment:
Task 1: Food investigation – 15% of GCSE
Understanding of the working characteristics, functional and chemical properties of ingredients. Practical investigations are a compulsory element of this task. Written or electronic report including photographic evidence of the practical investigation.
Task 2: Food preparation – 35% of GCSE
Knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to the planning, preparation, cooking, presentation of food and application of nutrition related to the chosen task. Pupils will prepare, cook and present a final menu of three dishes within a single period of no more than three hours, planning how this will be achieved. Written or electronic portfolio including photographic evidence.
Next steps and possible careers?
After completing the GCSE course, pupils may embark on a further courses such as BTEC Hospitality, other college courses or begin an apprenticeship or perhaps an employment in the catering, hospitality or other industries.
Examples of careers in food are:
| Chef | Nutritionist | Dietician | Health Promotions Office |
| Food Journalist | Food Critic | Food Developer | Food Technologist |
| Food Analyst | Food Scientist | Environmental Health Officer | Farm Manager |
| Food Buyer | Production & Manufacturing Sector Manager | Restauranteur | Hospitality Manager |
