NCFE T Level in Science - Food Science | Richmond Upon Thames College

Science

This is a 2 year (full-time) course.

This food science specialism focuses on:

Food safety, HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) and TACCP (Threat Assessment and Critical Control Points)
Regulatory compliance and labelling
Food microbiology
Product development and kitchen trials
Taste panel evaluation
Food production data analysis and continuous improvement
Sustainability and packaging planning.

Facilities available to our students include: specialist science laboratories, food preparation areas for product trials, calibrated laboratory equipment (e.g. pH meters, balances, titration and microbiology equipment) and access to IT suites for data analysis and project work.

Students complete a substantial, externally set, food science project based on realistic industry scenarios.

This course includes:
315 hour industry placement
Real product development experience
Strong focus on quality assurance and food data analytics
Direct alignment to food industry technologist roles
Enrichment opportunities that may include sustainability and food innovation projects, food product competitions, STEM events and employer-led workshops.

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Entry requirements
Students are required to have:
- 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English, Maths and Science
- A strong interest in science and the food industry.
  
  Students must achieve or work towards GCSE Grade 4 or Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Maths.
Who is the course for?
This course is for students who:
- Enjoy both practical laboratory work and academic study
- Want a technical alternative to A Levels
- Are interested in food manufacturing, quality or product development
- Are considering university, higher apprenticeships or skilled employment in the science sector.
Study methods
Students learn through a blend of:
- Classroom teaching
- Practical laboratory investigations
- Food production trials
- Research and report writing
- Project based learning
- Data analysis using digital tools
- Industry placement
- Structured exam preparation.
How is the course assessed?
The qualification is split equally.
Core Component (50%):
- Three externally assessed exams (Biology, Chemistry and Physics)
- Employer set project. These are externally set and marked by Pearson.
  
  Food Sciences Occupational Specialism (50%):
- Externally set project
- Includes product development, risk assessment, practical work and data analysis.
  
  These are set and marked by Pearson except one of the practical tasks, which is moderated by Pearson.
  
  Grading:
- Core graded A*– E
- Occupational Specialism graded Pass, Merit or Distinction
- Overall T Level grade awarded as Pass, Merit, Distinction, Distinction
- The qualification carries UCAS tariff points comparable to three A Levels.
More information
We work with a range of employers within the food and science sectors to support:
- Industry placements
- Guest lectures and career talks
- Workplace visits
- Real-world project briefs
- Quality assurance and manufacturing insight sessions.
  
  Students may engage with food manufacturers, quality laboratories, research organisations/universities and environmental health departments.
Where Next – Job Opportunities
Career pathways include:
- Food Safety Analyst
- Quality Control Technician
- Product Development Technologist
- Food Industry Technologist
- Laboratory Technician
- Research and Development Assistant.
  
  Students may work in food manufacturing companies, quality laboratories, regulatory bodies or research environments.
Where Next – Further Studies
Students can progress to:
- Degrees in Food Science, Food Technology or Nutrition
- Biomedical Science or Applied Science degrees
- Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)
- Higher or Degree Apprenticeships
- Level 5 Technician Scientist Apprenticeships.
  
  Many universities value the applied and project-based nature of the T Level, alongside the strong scientific foundation.
How to apply

To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit

OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.