Level 3 Food Science and Nutrition
Course Overview
This qualification provides an in-depth understanding of food science, nutrition, and their application in real-world contexts. You will explore the relationship between diet and health, food safety, and the development of innovative food products. The course combines academic theory with practical skills, preparing you for higher education or careers in areas such as dietetics, food science, public health, and product development.
The course is taught through a mix of classroom-based theory, practical sessions in a fully equipped kitchen, and independent research.
You will develop advanced cooking techniques, understand food safety legislation, and apply scientific principles to food production.
You will study:
- Nutritional needs across the life stages
- Practical food production skills
- Principles of food hygiene and food safety
- Optional units on food experimentation or current issues in food science and nutrition
Please note: the specification has recently changed for the 2026/2027 intake – you can see the changes here.

“Food science prepared me fully for my university course. It provided a very solid foundation from which to study, you learn all of the practical skills and it’s FUN!”
St Ivo Student
Key Information
Course Code: 4563QD
Minimum Entry Requirements
- Five 5’s including English and
- 4+ in mathematics
- Grade 5/ 5 in GCSE combined science or any two grade 5+ in triple science
- If food technology studied at GCSE grade 5+
Exam Board: WJEC EDUQAS
Assessment
- Year 12 : 50% exam, 50% coursework
- Year 13 : 100% coursework
How to apply
Choosing your post-16 options is an important decision, and St Ivo Academy Sixth Form is here to guide you. Applications are welcome from students in St Ives and beyond via the MyChoice16 platform.
Step-by-step application process
- Log in to your MyChoice16 account.
- Select ‘My Applications’. To start a new application, click ‘Start a new Application’; to continue an existing one, click ‘Continue’ next to your application.
- Complete all sections of your Profile Template if this is your first application. For additional applications, only ‘Course Choices’ needs to be completed.
- Qualifications will be uploaded by the school—this section can be skipped. Your form tutor will add a reference.
- Complete any remaining fields or checkboxes. Click ‘Send Application’ to submit.
- Your application status will update (eg. Sent, Schools Hold). The school will review your application to ensure it meets the requirements, and you may be asked to discuss it with a teacher.
- Monitor your application regularly and respond promptly to any notifications.
- All applicants will be invited to an interview before a provisional offer is made.
After St Ivo
Health & Nutrition
- Dietitian / Nutritionist (with further study)
- Public Health Advisor
- Health Promotion Specialist
Food & Science Industry
- Food Scientist / Technologist
- Quality Assurance / Quality Control Analyst
- Product Development / Food Innovation Specialist
Education & Communication
- Teacher / Lecturer in Nutrition or Food Science
- Community Nutrition Worker
- Food Writer / Media Specialist
Other Related Careers
- Laboratory Technician
- Catering and Hospitality Management
- Research Assistant in food or health-related projects
Contact the subject lead
Kelly Evans – Kelly.Evans@astreastivo.org
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