LACA School Chef of the Year takes her cooking skills into the classroom

Debbie Mumford from Ermington Primary School in Devon and LACA School Chef of the Year (SCOTY) is demonstrating her cookery skills online today as part of National School Meals Week (NSMW). She will help children learn to cook her winning recipes and how to make a cottage pie. The videos can be watched at www.iloveschoolmeals.co.uk.

Debbie is joined by Leon Taylor, BBC Commentator, and former silver medallist and 10m synchronised diver at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games. The two of them are filmed with pupils form Gilbert Scot School in Croydon. They make salmon fish balls with yoghurt dressing followed by butternut squash cake. The recipes can be downloaded and there is a lesson plan for teachers. This means the cookery classes can take place at home or school.

Beverley Baker, Chair of LACA, said, "I believe the more children learn about food the better it is and I think this is a great way to do it. If children develop their knowledge of food at an early age they are more likely to be able to select items that make up a balanced diet. A school meal is a great way of enjoying different foods as the choice throughout the week is so varied. Most authorities also have theme days so that they can try out new dishes and see what the children think of them".

Leon Taylor, said, "It was a great day with Debbie and the children filming her cooking skills. She is a great catering teacher and I think it is really important that children learn about food and healthy eating. I have been to see a number of schools and the meals served there and been very impressed by the quality of the food and the dedication of the catering staff. I would have no hesitation in recommending a school meal to anyone".