NCEA Level 2 Food and Nutrition

Why study Food and Nutrition?

Nutrition is fundamental to developing a sense of well-being. The ability to effectively look after ourselves and our whānau and communities is a necessary life skill. Information about nutrition and healthy eating can be conflicting and confusing in our society today, and challenging for many. This course is based on the major focus of Food and Nutrition (Home Economics) and aims to empower students with the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to make good decisions for themselves regarding food choice and to understand the influences and determinants on their food choices from a community perspective.

Comment from Emma - a recent past student and Head Girl:

"Every year I decide I don’t have enough space in my course selection to take Food and Nutrition, yet every year I manage to make the room because I enjoy taking it. I am able to take what I learn and apply it frequently to help enhance my life. Food is such a significant part of any culture and Food and Nutrition is a fascinating way to learn about why people make the choices they do around food. Often we can make judgments without knowing the circumstances and taking this subject is an eye opening experience that makes you think deeper than what’s at the surface. Being able to learn about the nutritional needs of an individual and at a societal level is a privilege. Thank you"

Areas of study will include:

• Nutrient requirements for individuals with a variety of specific needs e.g. teenage athletes, vegetarians. food allergies
• Sustainable food practices e.g. local foods/farmers markets, community gardens, preservation
• The issue of food security in New Zealand (people going hungry in our community)
• The planning, safe preparation and service of low cost and nutritious family meals
• The relationship between the determinants of health, our food choices and our wellbeing

NB See also: Hospitality: Food Technology and Hospitality: Food and Beverage for other foods based course options