Food Technician
Food technicians support the teaching of food technology/catering and may work alone or in the case of a large school/college, a small team of technicians. Although the role is usually based solely in the technology department, some food technicians may have a role in providing refreshments for open evenings or school events and may have links to the school lunch/catering areas.
The role generally includes some or all of the following:
- Procurement of, setting up and maintaining a wide range of equipment
- Keeping up to date with current guidance to ensure a safe working environment
- Organisation and preparation of ingredients for use by students or teachers in lessons
- Organising equipment and keeping stock of equipment, consumables and ingredients
- Cleaning and restocking after lessons
- Promoting healthy eating
- Administrative tasks related to the role
- Supporting students directly during lessons or delivering demonstrations
Click here to download a standard technician role profile from Skills4Schools
Training & CPD
Entry requirements vary between schools and LAs but generally at secondary level employers ask for at least GCSEs, or A-Levels or equivalent. Where technicians are expected to support students more directly and up to A-Level, employers may ask for higher qualifications in specific technology subjects.
CPD courses for food technicians are available through providers such as DATA and are sometimes organised through the local authority or academy trust.
Specialist qualifications such as a diploma in food technology, City and Guilds food preparation or other related training or experience in a commercial kitchen may be desirable but not essential for the role.
Support & Resources
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