On Tuesday 24th March 2026, our Year 9 pupils enjoyed a dynamic and hands‑on Food Technology Day, delivered by the Creative Department in close collaboration with our fantastic school kitchen team. The event was designed to build pupils’ confidence in the kitchen, deepen their understanding of food preparation, and give them the chance to express themselves creatively through cooking.
From the moment the session began, pupils were fully immersed in learning a range of essential culinary skills. Under the guidance of staff, they were introduced to safe cutting techniques, including how to hold food correctly using the well‑known “claw” grip. This helped them practise proper knife control, building both accuracy and safety awareness — an important foundation for any young cook.
Throughout the morning, pupils spent time chopping, slicing and dicing a variety of ingredients including fresh vegetables, chicken and cheese. The room buzzed with energy as pupils compared textures, colours and aromas, gaining a deeper appreciation for food preparation and the role it plays in cooking delicious meals.
A key part of the day involved pupils preparing their own cous cous from scratch. They explored ways to season and flavour it, experimenting with herbs, spices and chopped ingredients to give it personality and colour. This creative freedom helped pupils take ownership of their dishes, thinking carefully about balance, flavour and presentation.
Once all the ingredients were ready, pupils assembled their own tasty wraps served with a cous cous salad. Many pupils took pride in arranging their fillings neatly and presenting their plates attractively — showing just how much the creative element influenced their engagement and enjoyment.
Staff were delighted with the positive attitude, curiosity and teamwork pupils displayed throughout the session. The final dishes were not only delicious but showcased real effort, creativity and newly‑developed skills. It was clear that pupils enjoyed the opportunity to experiment, collaborate and learn in such a hands‑on environment.
This event was a brilliant example of how practical learning can inspire confidence, independence and a love of food. A huge thank‑you goes to the Creative Department and our school kitchen team for delivering such an enriching experience.
