Essentials CPD programme

Are you a trainee teacher, new to the profession, or a non-subject specialist delivering food and nutrition at secondary level across the UK? Essentials is a free, flexible online training programme designed to give you the knowledge, confidence, and tools to succeed in the classroom.

Teaching food and nutrition requires more than just subject knowledge—it takes confidence, effective planning, and practical strategies. Our 6-module programme is built to support your professional development, whether you're starting from scratch or looking to enhance your skills.

The online programme supports the Food teaching in secondary schools: a framework of knowledge and skills– backed by government and the Characteristics of good practice in teaching food and nutrition guides.

You’ll benefit from:

• Structured, experience-led content
• A personalised learning journey
• Flexible, self-paced study
• A CPD programme designed for you, by you; you choose which modules are relevant to you
• Fully funded access—no cost to you, your university or school

Register and join the programme at any time - you will have access to the training and support whenever you need it!

This programme is ideal for:

• Trainee teachers
• Early-career teachers within D&T and Home Economics
• Non-subject specialist teachers delivering food and nutrition

Whether you’re new to the subject or need a refresher, Essentials provides everything you need to teach with confidence.

Each module breaks down key areas of food and nutrition teaching:

• Planning, progression, assessment, and managing practical lessons
• Supporting pupils with additional needs
• Cooking and food preparation skills (for teachers and students)
• Healthy eating and nutrition
• Food science and sensory properties
• Consumer awareness and where food comes from

You choose which modules to complete, based on a short food and nutrition experience audit completed as part of the registration process. This ensures that the CPD is relevant to your own personal and professional needs.

We offer a flexible learning experience to suit your schedule and development needs:

• Self-paced online modules
• Recorded video tutorials and recordings of topic based webinars with expert Q&A
• Downloadable guides and teaching tips

Monitor your development with built-in reflection tools:

• Knowledge and skills audits
• Personal reflection documents
• Interactive quizzes and assessments

Join a growing network of educators building their expertise in food and nutrition.
Enrol today and begin your Essentials journey.