News

Government reforms to GCSE and A Level subjects could witness the scrapping of A Level Food Technology as the Government has not outlined plans to reform the subject.

The Department for Education states that food technology has been removed as an endorsed route within design and technology, as feedback from higher education practitioners and subject experts indicated that it did not fit comfortably within this subject, citing nutrition and science courses as a better entry route for those looking to pursue a career in the industry.

Whilst GCSE food subjects are being redeveloped, A Level food is set to be scrapped. However, the Government is in the middle of a consultation process, which affords the opportunity to industry bodies to influence the final outcome.

A Department for Education spokesperson said: “There are a number of high-quality vocational qualifications in food-related subjects. We are carrying out a consultation on the new Design and Technology A level, and as always we will listen carefully to the views of the sector.”

It also notes that there are a number of key stage 5 high-quality vocational qualifications in food-related subjects, including applied general qualifications in food and nutrition and in confectionary/butchery.

LACA has responded to these proposals and is urging the Government to reconsider its stance.

Sally Shadrack, vice chair of LACA, said: “Food education is vitally important to ensuring a generation of healthy, nutritionally aware young people leave our schools, and giving them the choice to take a Food Science A Level is a key component of this education.

“Taking this valuable specialised subject at A Level can indeed inspire students to seek a rewarding career in the food industry where over 12% of the British workforce are currently employed.

“In light of worryingly levels of child and adult obesity in the UK, LACA would urge the government to reconsider their proposals to scrap the qualification."