Cookery workshops for charities

I had the pleasure to work with a local charity called the Benjamin Foundation which is based in Norfolk.  The Benjamin Foundation helps families deal with everyday issues such as childcare and also the tougher and more sensitive issues like abuse and homelessness. 

The children who attend one of their drop-in centres wanted to do some baking so they could sell this at a local food fayre and raise some funds for their centre and also raise awareness of the work their charity does.

We had two baking workshops the day before the food fayre and the children made a variety of cakes, biscuits and muffins.  We had a very productive day which was great fun too. 

Cooking is a great way to reach out and teach children without them realising they are in a “classroom”.  The children had to read the recipes and follow the instructions within them.  We also worked on their maths skills by measuring ingredients and halving and doubling quantities.  There were no calculators allowed so their mental maths skills had a bit of a workout!

When they were selling their produce the following day, they had to add up and give the correct change which again helps their maths skills in a practical way.

This would be a great way for schools or playgroups to earn some much needed funds and help the children’s literacy and maths skills in a hands-on and fun way.  More information about the various cookery workshops I have run with community groups is available on my website: cookery workshops.