Cumbrian pupils were given a Michelin star masterclass in their school’s revamped food technology room.
Dallam School, in Milnthorpe, welcomed Alessandro Perfetto from Michelin-starred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel to work with year 10 pupils.
The schools’ food technology room has been transformed thanks to The Savoy Educational Trust and the Dallam School Charitable Trust.
The refurbishment was a complete refit of the room, including new workstations, ovens and hobs, and a height-adjustable workstation to support all learners.
Dallam School secured a grant of £48,589.65 from The Savoy Educational Trust, while the Dallam School Charitable Trust contributed £25,000.
During the morning session, Alessandro demonstrated how to prepare fresh filled pasta, including ravioli and tortellini, before 17 Year 10 students recreated their own dishes under his guidance.
The improved facility is already helping to create richer learning opportunities for students. Representatives from Gilpin Hotel first visited Dallam as part of the school’s careers day, which led Alessandro to visit the school to deliver the practical session.
It gave students valuable insight into professional food preparation and the hospitality industry, while also allowing Alessandro to share his own career path and encourage young people to consider careers in hospitality.
Steven Henneberry, headteacher, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to learn from a highly regarded chef and to experience the standards and skills involved in professional kitchens.
“We were delighted to showcase our refurbished food technology room, which is already making a real difference to teaching and learning.
“We are very grateful to The Savoy Educational Trust and the Dallam School Charitable Trust for making this investment possible. The new facility is helping us provide high-quality, practical learning experiences and strengthen the link between classroom learning and future careers.”
Alessandro said: “I had an excellent experience with the Dallam students in our first cookery demo. There was clear talent and passion for cooking among the students at the school, which is fantastic to see at such a young age.
“We hope this passion will carry through to a long-lasting partnership and further demonstrations and masterclasses.
“The students and teaching staff were an absolute treat to work alongside, and it was a great experience for me too.”
