Our Curriculum

At Philip Southcote School, we believe that cooking is a vital life skill. Our Home Cooking Skills curriculum is designed to help students develop independence, build confidence, and find enjoyment in preparing food for themselves and others. We want students to understand the importance of healthy eating, food safety, and making informed choices that support their wellbeing and future independence.

We teach cooking in a way that is inclusive, accessible, and meaningful. Students follow a pathway tailored to their individual needs and capabilities, with opportunities to explore ingredients, follow recipes, and build practical skills. Our curriculum is mapped against our assessment framework and aligns with the Wheel of Independence, supporting students to become confident individuals who can prepare meals safely and with purpose.

Key Stage 3

In Key Stage 3, students learn the foundations of food hygiene, safety, and preparation. They explore a range of savoury dishes and develop the ability to follow instructions, use equipment safely, and make healthy food choices. Resources and schemes of work are differentiated to support students working at pre-Entry Level, ensuring all learners can access and succeed in cooking activities.

Key Stage 4

In Key Stage 4, students build on their skills through practical cooking experiences and recognised qualifications. All students can work towards Level 1 and Level 2 BTEC Home Cooking Skills, with clear progression between levels. These nationally recognised qualifications give students a sense of achievement and help prepare them for further education, employment, or independent living.

For students not yet accessing Level 1, an alternative pathway focuses on meal preparation and independence, aligning with the Wheel of Independence framework. This pathway supports progression towards active participation in the Sixth Form community day, where students cook and share food with others in a social and purposeful setting.

Across All Key Stages

We aim to build independence, resilience, and aspiration. We want students to be proud of their progress and confident in their ability to cook for themselves and their community.

Students develop their cooking skills through a purposeful learning journey:

• Understanding hygiene and safety in the kitchen
• Recognising and selecting ingredients
• Following and adapting recipes
• Using equipment safely and effectively
• Preparing and cooking meals independently
• Sharing food and cooking experiences with others

Our curriculum helps students become confident cooks, ready to take their next steps in life.