Food is a basic requirement of life and should be enjoyed and celebrated. Here in the Food and Nutrition Department we aim to help students do just that!

From Year 4 right up to Sixth Form we encourage students to develop a enthusiasm for and understanding of food, nutrition and ingredients. Our aim is to give students the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of human nutrition, diet and health throughout life; to enable them to discover the nutritional, physical, chemical and sensory properties of food and to develop sound manipulative, organisational and practical skills when planning and preparing meals and making food choices.

We achieve this using a wide variety of teaching methods within the department from demonstrations and taste testing, to trips and expert input, and, of course, making and taking food products home to share. Students develop confidence and competence in handling and producing of food products all in the inspiring and modern Food and Nutrition teaching room. The Food and Nutrition room has recently undergone a full refurbishment and allows girls to have their own work stations and equipment for practical work.

The Maynard’s passion for food has resulted in the production of a recipe book which has involved students, parents and former students of all ages in devising, researching and testing recipes for inclusion.

In our newly refurbished textiles suite, we aim to stimulate students' interest and enjoyment in Textiles design. Textiles is taught from year 7 to year 9, with students learning to design, develop and create a selection of quality textile items. Projects include hand crafted textile jewellery, hand made cuddly toys, bespoke fashion garments, unique home furnishings, felted wool handbags and other individual projects. Students are encouraged to draw inspiration from existing art and craft items as well as the world around, locally and globally. We strongly encourage students to consider the environmental impact of their design ideas and projects. Students are shown how to make beautiful textile items using quality recycled or sustainable materials, they learn how to make their own technical patterns and continue to develop hand and machine sewing skills as well as decorative sewing techniques.