At Burlington House Senior, Food Preparation continues in Year 9 as the culmination of KS3 learning, with a stronger focus on nutrition, healthy eating, and food technology processes, while still developing the practical skills needed for lifelong independence.
BTEC Level 1/2 Award in Home Cooking Skills
From Year 10, pupils may choose the BTEC Level 1/2 Award in Home Cooking Skills as an options subject. This vocational course is designed to give learners the essential knowledge, skills and confidence to cook for themselves and others — a vital step towards independence and wellbeing.
What pupils learn
- Planning and preparing simple, nutritious meals safely and hygienically
- Using a wide range of practical cooking techniques
- Understanding nutrition and the principles of healthy eating
- Developing organisation, sequencing and evaluation skills through practical assessments
- Creating a portfolio of work to demonstrate their ability and progress
Why it matters
- The course gives pupils a recognised qualification and a clear pathway into vocational study, apprenticeships or food-related careers
- It provides learners with real-world, transferable skills they can apply immediately in everyday life
- The subject strengthens confidence, resilience and independence in a practical setting
- For many pupils, cooking is a way to build wellbeing and self-esteem, while learning to take responsibility for themselves and others
Links to other subjects
- English – sequencing, instructions, reflective writing
- Maths – accurate weighing, scaling and portioning
- Science – food processes, nutrition, chemical changes in cooking
- PSHE / Life Skills – personal independence, healthy living, family and community life
