View here for an update from SQA about their current activities.

We want to draw your attention to one section of their work and encourage you to get involved.

The Scottish food and drink industry is currently experiencing a shortage of food scientists and technologists and this situation is expected to continue.  Contributory factors are thought to include the shortage of food science and technology courses in Scotland and the shortage of Scottish applicants for Food Technology posts.

CDN has been working with the SFDF and SQA to review available qualifications and courses that will ultimately address the shortage of technical and skilled workers in the food and drink manufacturing industry.

SQA are currently reviewing their HNC/D Food Science and Technology courses.  The current HNC/D are not performing as expected and SQA are keen to better understand the reasons for this.  On speaking with colleges they understand there is a barrier to delivering the current courses as they stand, as a number of mandatory units require the colleges to have pilot manufacturing equipment on site. SQA are proposing that these units will be optional in the new framework to remove this barrier.

In an attempt to update the courses, make them more appealing and attract more enquiries, SQA are proposing to add the following new units:

CDN are keen that colleges engage with the qualification review process and urge you to contact SQA to have an opportunity to comment on their proposals, suggest other units or propose ways the pathways could work for students who want to enter the vibrant food and drink production sector.

To receive the revised structures and provide feedback, please contact Kelly Stevenson, Opportunity Appraisal Manager, at kelly.stevenson@sqa.org.uk or telephone 0345 213 5978, before Monday 21 November 2016.