Level 3 Applied Diploma in Food Science and Nutrition

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - 31st March 2026

Entry Requirements: - Our Sixth Form entry requirements are five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above for the 'A' Level Pathway (in addition to some individual subject entry requirements) and 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 and above for the Vocational (BTEC) Pathway. The course information gives specific details of course content and entry requirements. Please also refer to the Sixth Form Prospectus for the specific entry requirements for the chosen subjects.

Students need to select the equivalent of 3 A Levels or more. (Triple BTEC counts as 3, Double BTEC counts as 2). Subjects are grouped into option blocks, please be aware that not all combinations are possible.

In addition to academic requirements stated above a place will be dependent on the receipt of a satisfactory school reference.

How to Apply: - Please apply via Kent Choices if you area a student from another school.

Please visit our website www.stanselmscanterbury.org.uk for more information.

An understanding of food science and nutrition is relevant to many industries and job roles. Care providers and nutritionists in hospitals use this knowledge, as do sports coaches and fitness instructors. Hotels and restaurants, food manufacturers and government agencies also use this understanding to develop menus, food products and policies that that support healthy eating initiatives. There are many employment opportunities within the field of food science and nutrition available to graduates.

This is an Applied General qualification. This means it is designed primarily to support learners progressing to university.

Learners complete three units: two mandatory and one optional.

The first mandatory unit will enable the learner to demonstrate an understanding of the science of food safety, nutrition and nutritional needs in a wide range of contexts, and through on–going practical sessions, to gain practical skills to produce quality food items to meet the needs of individuals.

The second mandatory unit will allow learners to develop their understanding of the science of food safety and hygiene; essential knowledge for anyone involved in food production in the home or wishing to work in the food industry. Again, practical sessions will support the gaining of theoretical knowledge and ensure learning is a tactile experience.

Studying one of the two optional units will allow learners the opportunity to study subjects of particular interest or relevance to them, building on previous learning and experiences.

Unit 1 Meeting nutritional needs of specific groups - mandatory - internal and external assessment

Unit 2 Ensuring food is safe to eat - mandatory - external assessment

Unit 3 Experimenting to solve fod production problems - optional - internal assessment

Unit 4 Current issues in Food Science and Nutrition - optional - internal assessment

Grade 4 or above at GCSE Food Science if studied. Grade 4 or above in GCSE English Language.

Together with other relevant qualifications at Level 3 such as Biology, Chemistry, Sociology and Maths learners will gain the required knowledge to be able to use the qualification to support entry to higher education courses such as: BSc Food and Nutrition BSc Human Nutrition BSc (Hons) Public Health Nutrition BSc (Hons) Food Science and Technology and a wide range of careers.