Summer Programme Cooks Up Confidence for Lincolnshire School Children

Children across Lincolnshire are getting hands-on cooking experience and food education as Branston continues its support for local holiday clubs.

Branston is sponsoring cookery sessions and donating potatoes for this summer’s Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF) programme run by Lincolnshire County Council across the north of Lincolnshire and Gainsborough.

The Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF) is a government-funded programme that provides free holiday clubs for children in reception to Year 11 in place of free school meals during the school holidays.

As part of Branston’s involvement, it has funded 30 cookery sessions with Cook Stars, a cooking school that delivers hands-on classes and workshops to children across the UK.

During the sessions, children are whipping up their very own frittata and potato salads, following healthy and nutritious recipes created by Helen Walker owner of Cook Stars Lincoln North & Gainsborough. They will also take home some recipe cards with summer recipes featuring Baby potatoes to provide extra cooking inspiration at home.

Simon Telfer, HR director at Branston, said: “We’re passionate about supporting local initiatives and making a positive impact on Lincolnshire’s communities. It’s a pleasure to once again partner with Lincolnshire County Council, bringing local children the opportunity to build on their cooking skills in a fun and engaging environment.

“Encouraging people, young and old, to learn about the importance of looking after their health and prioritising nutrition is key to building a healthier future for Lincolnshire. Providing food education to these age groups allows them to make choices that will support their body, but also their mind, for their whole life.”

Councillor Natalie Oliver, executive councillor for Children’s Services at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Branston Ltd to support our HAF programme this summer. Their generous contribution will help provide nutritious meals and engaging activities for children and young people across Lincolnshire during the school holidays.

“Partnerships like this play a vital role in ensuring families can access support, while helping children stay active, healthy and connected throughout the summer break. We would like to thank Branston Ltd for their commitment to supporting local communities and making a positive difference to young people across the county.”

You can find further details about HAF and check if your child is eligible at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/school-pupil-support/holiday-activities-food-programme. Summer sessions are running from Thursday 23 July to Wednesday 2 September.