Eat Club uses cooking and food to help young people develop practical life skills, confidence and stronger social connections. A grant from the Weavers’ Company supported Eat Club Young Chefs, delivering practical cooking sessions for pupils at Harmood School in Camden. The sessions gave young people the opportunity to learn new cooking skills while developing communication, teamwork, independence and perseverance in an enjoyable and supportive environment.
Nine young people took part in the programme, preparing 87 meals during the sessions and showing a significant increase in confidence and social skills. As well as learning about food preparation, hygiene and working safely in a kitchen, the pupils worked together to cook for their wider school community, giving them a real sense of responsibility and achievement. The sessions also supported individual learning goals, helping pupils practise skills such as following instructions, problem-solving, concentration and working with others. Sharing the food they had prepared together at the end of the sessions provided an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and strengthened the sense of belonging within the group.
