Summer course nurtures young and future foodies

Over 30 young people have taken part in a free course during the summer holidays, focusing on food knowledge, preparation, growing and eating well.

“Future Foodies”, delivered by Walsall College in partnership with Public Health Walsall, has encouraged students aged 14 to 16 to develop their understanding of a healthy and environmentally friendly approach to eating well. The course has promoted holistic life skills and an independent diet routine that will help with informed lifestyle choices and potential future careers working in the food industry.

Four-day courses ran throughout July and August, covering healthy eating and nutrition, sugar reduction, food growing initiatives, budgeting skills and sustainability. Practical kitchen sessions were also included, giving young people the opportunity to prepare cultural foods using refined sugars in desserts and replicating takeaway foods at home with a healthy twist.

A session on horticulture in the garden also took place featuring a guest expert from Goscote Greenacres Community Gardens.

On the final day of each course, students prepared canapes for their parents and carers, followed by a certificate presentation.

Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing at Walsall Council said: ““The Future Foodies programme has been a fantastic collaboration between Walsall College and our Public Health team to inspire young people about all things food, as well as improving confidence, teamwork skills and organisational skills.

“We hope this course will equip many young people for a brighter future, whether that is through further education in industries like catering, hospitality or food safety, or to apply their new skills to jobs, volunteering or their daily lives. Our aim is for all young people to live thriving, healthier and happier lives across Walsall.

“I am delighted that Walsall College will continue to run the Future Foodies course during term-time from September on a monthly basis. If you know a young person aged 14-16 with an interest in food, sustainability and healthy eating, please encourage them to apply for the next available course.

“Congratulations to everyone who has participated in the course.”

Rebecca Bourne, Lectuter at Walsall College said: “Providing these young people with the guidance, motivation and means to cook hygienically, sustainably and creatively is certain to have a positive impact on their wider personal development and future wellbeing, as well as that of their families.

It’s been wonderful seeing the students gain confidence in their abilities and demonstrate teamworking during the canape reception marking the end of their course.

Overall, the programme has provided a valuable and positive experience, inspiring a new generation to take ownership of their health and what they eat. “

 The next Future Foodies courses will commence on the following dates:

• Tuesday 8th October
• Tuesday 12th November
• Tuesday 3rd December
• Tuesday 14th January
• Tuesday 4th March

The three-day courses are free to attend, taking place on Tuesday evenings during term time between 5pm and 8pm. Find out more and apply here.