Food Technology

Introduction

The Food Technology department consists of 3 full time food teachers and is well supported by a full time technician. The 2 food rooms are well equipped and presented which help to create a stimulating, comfortable and supportive learning environment for students.

The practical, hands on approach to learning makes food technology a popular subject at both KS3 and 4.

Department Staff

• Caroline Rizzo – Subject Leader
• Carolyn Williams
• Jo Saxton
• Mary Hancock – Food Technician

Curriculum

Key Stage 3

At Key stage 3 students study food technology for 2, 1 hour lessons a week for ½ a year.

Students acquire knowledge and skills by a variety of teaching methods and resources which include, demonstrations, group investigational work, disassembly and evaluation of products, sensory analysis, use of a nutritional software I.T. package and by completing a wide range of focused practical tasks. All work is carefully planned and differentiated to ensure all students needs are catered for.

Each year students apply their new skills, knowledge and understanding by completing a design and make project. Students work independently to generate new product ideas. A great emphasis is placed on producing products of high quality. Students also complete the Sainsburies Taste of Success Award scheme projects at KS3 which are very successful and popular with students.

Examples of design and make projects:

• Year 7 - Design and make a healthy, unusual pizza.
• Year 8 - Design and make a biscuit suitable for a child.
• Year 9 - Design and make a multicultural savoury pastry product to be sold in the school canteen.

KS4

Students follow the AQA Design and Technology : Food syllabus which consists of a 60% coursework project and a 40% 2 hour written examination.

The three main areas of work studied are the food product development process, food as a material and food manufacturing and processing. The coursework project requires students to apply this knowledge to design and make a new food product.