Food Preparation & Nutrition

Food Preparation and Nutrition at CHS South inspires students to explore the relevance and importance of healthy eating, equipping them with the skills to contribute to a healthy future. Through practical cooking and nutritional understanding, students gain knowledge that benefits both their personal wellbeing and potential future careers.

 

Our Intent

Our mission is to prepare students for life with essential cooking, nutrition, and transferable skills, nurturing Creative, Happy, and Successful learners.

• The Food Preparation & Nutrition Department aims to:

• Promote healthy eating and an understanding of nutrition.

• Inspire creativity, independence, and problem-solving through practical cooking.

• Equip students with specialist and transferable skills valued across industries.

• Develop awareness of food provenance, sustainability, and global cuisines.

• Prepare students for future study and careers in food, hospitality, and beyond.

 

Curriculum Information

Key Stage 3:

Year 7 Cooking & Nutrition Year 8 Cooking & Nutrition Year 9 Cooking & Nutrition

Key Stage 4:

Year 10 Food Preparation & Nutrition  Year 11 Food Preparation & Nutrition

 

Why Study Food Preparation & Nutrition?

Studying Food Preparation & Nutrition at CHS South develops a wide range of skills:

Practical Skills – mastering techniques to create a repertoire of savoury and sweet dishes.

Creativity – designing and adapting recipes to meet different needs and preferences.

Problem-Solving & Logic – applying food science and making decisions in real contexts.

Teamwork & Communication – working effectively in group tasks and projects.

Transferable Skills – organisation, analysis, independence, and resilience.

Food Preparation & Nutrition is also linked to one of the UK’s most dynamic industries, offering diverse career opportunities in food, nutrition, and hospitality.

 

Meet the Team

Ms. Smalley - Curriculum Leader for Design & Technology and Teacher

Miss. Heery - Curriculum Leader for Design & Technology and Teacher

Mrs. Meanwell-Trafford - Assistant Curriculum Leader for Design & Technology and Teacher

Miss. Abramowicz        Teacher

Mrs. Hibberson-Davies - Technician for Design & Technology

Ms. Soultani - Technician for Design & Technology

 

Enrichment Opportunities

Students can take their learning further through:

• Cooking clubs and competitions

• School events and food showcases

• Workshops with industry professionals

• Trips and visits linked to food, health, and hospitality

 

How Parents/Carers Can Support at Home

• Encourage regular practice of cooking simple dishes.

• Involve your child in meal planning and preparation.

• Discuss healthy eating, nutrition, and food sustainability.

• Support attendance at after-school clubs or food events.

 

Further Study

• A Level Food Science & Nutrition

• College courses in Catering or Hospitality

• Apprenticeships in the food and drink sector

• University pathways in Nutrition, Food Science, or Culinary Arts

 

Career Links

Food & Hospitality Chef / Baker / Pâtissier Caterer / Events Catering Manager Restaurant Manager Hospitality Supervisor	Food Science & Nutrition Food Technologist Nutritionist / Dietitian Food Scientist Product Development Specialist
Education & Community Teacher / Instructor in Food or Catering Community Health & Nutrition Worker Food Education Practitioner	Business & Industry Food Buyer / Quality Controller Food Safety Officer Supply Chain Manager Marketing / PR in Food & Hospitality
Creative & Media Food Stylist / Food Photographer Food Writer / Journalist / Blogger TV Food Presenter / Content Creator

Food is more than just cooking - it’s creativity, science, culture, and community. Our aim is to give every student the confidence and skills to succeed, whether at home or in future careers.