Tasty Careers challenge brings real-world food and drink experiences into the classroom

Published 18th November 2025

The National Skills Academy for Food & Drink (NSAFD) is inspiring students to explore careers in food and drink through its Tasty Careers Schools Challenge. The programme gives teachers a hands-on, curriculum-linked way to develop students’ creativity, teamwork, and digital, literacy, and numeracy skills while exploring nutrition, sustainability, and health.

   

Students work with local food businesses, designing healthy, sustainable meals and considering real-world factors like costings, allergies, and ingredient sourcing. Winners enjoy unique experiences, such as visiting Michelin-starred kitchens, seeing careers up close, and meeting industry professionals.

Primary schools can also take part in a climate-focused challenge, comparing supermarket and local-sourced ingredients to explore carbon footprints and sustainability in everyday meals.

For teachers, the challenge provides ready-to-use classroom resources, supports cross-curricular learning, and connects students with local businesses, opening doors to future careers in manufacturing, hospitality, and food service.

Find out more: nsafd.co.uk | tastycareers.org.uk