Home Economics 

Introduction

Home Economics has a long-standing place within the school curriculum. Its aim is to enable pupils to cope confidently with the life skills they require to make sensible and informed choices about diet, health and nutrition combined with the ability to manage a budget in keeping with their lifestyles.

Practical cookery skills are key to the subject and a great range of techniques is practised. Pupils are encouraged to enjoy experimenting with their own ideas, leading to colourful and inventive outcomes using a wide variety of ingredients.

The Department raises the awareness of the part food plays in our society today, highlighting the importance of nutrition and a healthy lifestyle and demonstrating the importance of food in building social skills, manners and conversation. It enhances the self esteem of the pupil when a well-prepared and well-presented meal has been served.

Home Economics at Rishworth

Home Economics is taught from Year 7 up to GCSE level. During Years 7 and 8 the Department aims to teach basic practical skills, relating to sensible nutritional knowledge.

Year 9 then leads into links with the National Curriculum where food technology is covered in greater depth.

The two-year GCSE course in Food and Nutrition involves one major coursework assignment accounting for 50% of the final mark. This assignment forms the basis of practical work where pupils investigate a topic of their choice in which their knowledge and understanding of the subject are put to the test.  The remaining 50% is based on a written exam at the end of the course.  A theory paper is set by the Board with an option for Higher or Foundation papers being taken depending upon the outcome of coursework marks.

Outside the classroom

There are plenty of opportunities to fulfil potential and raise pupils’ confidence. The Department undertakes visits to supermarkets, other schools and local restaurants where pupils are encouraged to question and interview.

GCSE pupils may organise an evening out to a restaurant, enjoy a meal and afterwards inspect the kitchens.