A Culinary Revolution: Mearns Primary School Wins National Award for Food Education
In an inspiring achievement, Sharon Hunter, the headteacher of Mearns Primary School and Nursery Class in East Renfrewshire, has been awarded the title of School Food Leader at the 2026 Jamie Oliver Good School Food Awards. Her dedication to transforming food education has made a significant impact in the lives of her students, and her innovative approach has set a new benchmark for schools across the UK.
The Quiet Food Revolution
Under Sharon's leadership, Mearns Primary has taken a bold step toward integrating food education into the fabric of school life. She has transformed traditional classrooms into fully equipped teaching kitchens, allowing students from nursery through Primary 7 to learn essential cooking skills. The judging panel praised her efforts to create lasting and positive change, recognizing how essential cooking and food education are to children's development.
Building Skills and Confidence
Sharon's program empowers students to explore a variety of culinary skills, from measuring ingredients to preparing meals from scratch. The school's innovative 'Gastronomers' pathway places food education on equal footing with traditional subjects like reading and mathematics. This approach not only enhances students' cooking abilities but also bolsters their confidence and curiosity. As Joe Swash aptly noted, the skills children develop in the kitchen are ones they will carry with them throughout their lives.
A Community Effort
The impact of this culinary education extends beyond the school walls. Parents are encouraged to participate in sessions where pupils explore international cuisines, promoting a sense of community and connection through food. Furthermore, students grow their fruits and vegetables in a school garden, actively engaging with the food they cook and fostering an appreciation for healthy eating.
Innovative Projects and Partnerships
Sharon has also initiated projects that connect students with cultures around the world, such as a collaboration with pen pals in Dubai. The program encourages children to research middle-eastern cultures, develop recipes, and even host banquets for their families, enriching their learning experience and expanding their culinary horizons.
A Vision Supported by the Community
Sharon’s aspirations reached new heights when she helped raise over £10,000 to fund Spark Park, a new outdoor learning space equipped with cooking facilities, BBQs, and pizza ovens. This transformation has benefited not only the students but also community partnerships, including a collaboration with the Glasgow School of Art to create the Heather and Honey Bidh Café, which showcases the students' culinary creations.
As Mearns Primary School sets a precedent for food education, the recognition received by Sharon Hunter serves as an inspiration for educators everywhere to prioritize healthy eating and cooking skills in their curriculums. With a focus on nurturing confident, capable individuals, this initiative aims to shape a healthier future for the next generation.
