Food Technology is part is an essential part of the Design and Technology component of the National Curriculum. It prepares students to appreciate and use modern technologies that improve the quality of life and calls for students to become creative problem solvers and combine practical skills with an understanding of aesthetic, social and environmental issues, function and industrial practices.

The study of making in food in the National Curriculum Key Stage 3 Design and Technology Programmes of Study includes:

  • learning a broad range of practical skills, techniques, equipment and standard recipes, and how to use them to develop, plan and cook meals and single or multiple products.
  • learning how to plan and carry out a broad range of practical cooking tasks safely and hygienically.
  • learning healthy eating models relating to a balanced diet, the nutritional needs of different groups in society and the factors affecting food choice and how to take these into account when planning, preparing and cooking meals and products.
  • learning the characteristics of a broad range of ingredients, including their nutritional, functional and sensory properties.
Students also follow the Government's Licence to Cook curriculum which is compulsory in all schools in England from 2011. This enables learners to learn basic cooking skills and how to cook a range of dishes and meals and learn about and apply aspects of healthy eating, wise shopping and food safety to food choice and cooking.

The Food Technology curriculum is designed to encourage students to learn the skills necessary to become confident and accomplished cooks able to live safe, healthy and fulfilling lives. To be successful learners who enjoy learning, make progress and achieve and who can be responsible users of the world's resources and make a positive contribution to society.

At Key Stage 4 students can take an examination course to develop their cooking skills and interest in food to a higher level. It is a valuable work-related qualification for students interested in Catering and Hospitality Vocational courses at Cambridge Regional College and working in the Food industry.