FSS reinforces backing of schools food safety skills

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) is continuing its £50,000 annual backing for vital national secondary school food safety qualifications that have now been taken by more than 75,000 pupils over the past seven years.

The agency is once again matching the Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland’s (REHIS) contribution, meaning another 15,000 places will be offered on REHIS’ Elementary Food Hygiene Course.

The REHIS Schools Initiative is available to all secondary schools in Scotland for pupils aged between 13 and 18.

FSS has been funding the initiative since 2007. It developed further in 2020 when the co-funding allowed schools to also deliver the REHIS Elementary Food and Health course, which covers a basic knowledge of healthy eating, nutrition and health and has been extremely well received by the schools.

Both courses provide pupils with national qualifications, which are useful to both them and future employers and assists Scotland in meeting the SQA Curriculum for Excellence, Health and Wellbeing (Food and Health) experience and outcomes.

FSS chief executive Geoff Ogle said:

“The skills being taught under the Schools Initiative mirror why FSS exists – to protect consumers in Scotland from food safety risks, and to promote healthy eating.”

“Our remit covers all aspects of the food chain which can impact on public health. And so helping to support young people with vital food safety skills that will serve them well in future - whether in the home or within the food and drink industry – is money very well spent.”

Jackie McCabe, REHIS Chief Executive, said:

“I am delighted the Secondary Schools’ Initiative is being co-funded again for another year and I would like to thank Food Standards Scotland. 

“The co-funding is essential in supporting the delivery of the REHIS qualifications in schools throughout Scotland.

“Both courses are beneficial to young people as they provide industry recognised qualifications, which are formally credited on the Scottish Credit Qualification Framework (SCQF) at Level 5, and can provide a huge advantage when seeking employment in the catering, hospitality, and care industries.”