Food and drink are essential parts of our everyday lives and people are taking a lot more interest in where their food comes from and how it is produced.

The food and drink sector directly employs up to 400,000 people nationally, and as many as 1.2million in ancillary services. It has a particularly strong presence in the South West, with many household names being based here. It is a fast moving, ever changing and innovative industry to be involved in.

Bridgwater College’s Cannington Centre saw the exciting launch of its Food Academy last month, seeing students aged 14 to 16 from schools across Somerset come together on Saturday mornings to enhance their knowledge of the industry. They will undergo a wide variety of introductory sessions ranging from designing and making their own sausages, understanding the science behind ice cream and taking part in a Dragons Den event where the students will design and pitch their own product!

On completion of the programme there will be a Graduation Ceremony where students will receive a Certificate of Achievement.

Course Leader for Food and Drink at Bridgwater College Julie Harris said,

“If you are interested in a career in food and drink, food technology or catering, or just interested in finding out how and where your food comes from, then this brand new programme is a great opportunity for you to find out more about the exciting food and drink industry.”

Given the popularity of the current course, it is anticipated that Bridgwater College will run a further Food Academy aimed specifically for Year 10 and 11 students early next year, so if you are interested in taking part in the future, please contact Julie Harris and register your interest, email foodacademy@bridgwater.ac.uk.

As well as the Food Academy, Bridgwater College has launched a new Level 3 Food Technology Study Programme specifically designed for students who wish to combine their interest in food with a technical qualification.

There is currently a skills shortage within the industry and qualified students are in strong demand. In order to meet the growing needs of local employers and the wider food industry, students will cover a rich and diverse set of topics ranging from nutrition, dairy science to chocolate production. The gaining of a Level 2 Food Safety and Level 2 HACCP qualifications together with work experience opportunities with local industry partners forms a key part of the course.

Julie Harris comments,

“This brand new programme has been specifically designed to ensure students experience a good mix of academic study, practical work and visits to a local industry partners. Visits to a local dairy farm, flour mill and learning about ice cream production will enhance their individual knowledge providing them with valuable information and knowledge to support their future careers.”