Pupils bake up a 'licence to cook'

12 April 2012

Hands-on classes to teach children how to bake cakes and knock up a spaghetti bolognese are to be introduced in every school.

All pupils will get the chance to earn a "licence to cook" in an attempt to improve their kitchen skills and encourage them to eat more healthily.

The move - due to be formally unveiled by ministers on Monday - will see schools laying on courses of 24 one hour lessons for 11-16 year-olds.

A spokesman for the Department for Education and Skills said: "We want to see a resurgence in the art of cookery. All kids will now get the chance to learn hands-on cookery."

Currently students may be taught some food skills as part of their Design and Technology (D&T) curriculum, but the lessons are usually theoretical and often revolve around health and safety.

It will not be compulsory for pupils to take the new courses, but from 2008 all schools will be obliged to offer them. They will not count towards any formal qualification.

"Schools could have it as part of their D&T over the course of an academic year, or it could be done as an after-school club," the spokesman said.

"When kids have completed the 24 lessons they will receive a 'licence to cook' certificate. But what they will really have is life skills that will stand them in good stead for the future."

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