At St Catherine’s College, our Food and Cookery curriculum is designed to inspire students to become enthusiastic, competent, and independent learners. Aligned with our mission to prepare students to stand shoulder to shoulder with their peers locally, nationally, and globally, we aim to empower them with essential life skills and a love for cooking that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Through our curriculum, we seek to:

• Foster a love and understanding of Food and Cookery, encouraging students to explore a variety of ingredients, techniques, and cuisines.
• Equip students with practical and theoretical knowledge, enabling them to develop core skills and progress to more advanced techniques at Key Stage 4 and beyond.
• Introduce students to a broad range of cooking methods and commodities, promoting healthier cooking practices and enhancing their awareness of diverse foods.
• Instill independence and self-confidence, preparing students to make informed food choices and successfully cook at home or in professional environments.

Our curriculum emphasises:

• Practical learning, with hands-on opportunities to apply cooking skills, experiment with recipes, and develop their culinary creativity.
• Theoretical understanding, covering topics such as nutrition, food safety, and the science behind cooking to deepen their knowledge.
• Preparation for the future, equipping students with the skills needed to transition smoothly to further education, apprenticeships, or careers in food and hospitality.

We are committed to creating confident, ambitious learners who:

• Develop a lifelong appreciation for food, cooking, and nutrition.
• Understand the importance of healthier cooking methods and the role of food in well-being.
• Gain the ability to work independently, take ownership of their learning, and make positive contributions to their communities.

Food and Cookery at St Catherine’s College is more than just a subject; it is an essential foundation for life. Our goal is to inspire students to appreciate the art and science of cooking, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and independence to succeed in their education and beyond.

For full details of the Food and Cookery curriculum for all year groups, please see below. For further information or queries, please contact Ms H Pearce, Head of Food and Nutrition, via hpearce@stcatherines.college