Written question asked by Howard Stoate (Labour) on Thursday, 4 July 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 July 2002. It was answered by Stephen Twigg (Labour) on Thursday, 11 July 2002 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Dept for Education and Skills

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, if she will make it her policy to ensure that all schoolchildren at Key Stages I, II and III are taught (a) basic cooking skills and (b) good diet and nutrition; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Dr. Stoate: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will make it her policy to ensure that all schoolchildren at Key Stages I, II and III are taught (a) basic cooking skills and (b) good diet and nutrition; and if she will make a statement. [68344] Mr. Stephen Twigg: All primary pupils have a statutory entitlement to food technology within the national curriculum. They learn practical food handling skills, including food hygiene, and are encouraged to develop positive attitudes to food. At Key Stage 3, the Government strongly encourage secondary schools to offer pupils the opportunity to study food technology, and 90 per cent. do so. Food, nutrition and healthy eating are also taught within science and personal, social and health education.

Secondary information