The Cooking School
Our Cooking School at Five Acres plays a central role in bringing people together through the power of food. Much like our garden, the kitchen is a place of creativity, learning, and connection. Our Cooking Team works alongside Champions to prepare nutritious, delicious meals using fresh ingredients, often sourced directly from our own garden. This holistic approach connects growing and cooking, reinforcing the importance of healthy living and sustainable practices.
Champions involved in the Cooking Team gain hands-on experience in all aspects of meal preparation, from basic kitchen skills to planning balanced menus and learning about food safety and hygiene. The kitchen becomes a space where confidence can grow, new talents can emerge, and teamwork is encouraged. Every dish prepared is more than a meal, it’s an achievement that fosters pride and promotes well-being.
Collaboration extends beyond our kitchen walls. The Cooking Team regularly partners with local organisations, community groups, and food networks on shared projects and events. From community cook-alongs to supporting local food banks or catering for Five Acres events, these activities give Champions a chance to contribute meaningfully to their community. Through these experiences, the Cooking Team not only feeds people, it nurtures personal growth, builds life skills, and strengthens connections both within and beyond Five Acres.
Field To Fork Project
At Five Acres, our Field to Fork project brings the journey of food to life. In our dedicated herb garden and growing spaces, champions help nurture a wide variety of herbs, fruits, and vegetables. From planting seeds to harvesting, they gain hands-on experience in caring for produce and understanding where food comes from.
Everything grown feeds directly into our Cooking School. Freshly picked herbs and garden vegetables are used in recipes, allowing champions to taste the difference that seasonal, homegrown ingredients make. This approach not only enhances cooking sessions but also reinforces the importance of sustainability, healthy eating, and connection to the land.
By linking gardening with cooking, Field to Fork shows champions the full cycle of food — from soil to plate. It gives them pride in knowing that the meals they prepare start with the plants they have grown, making every dish a true team achievement.