Cooking classes encourage giving

Bertram Primary School students cooked up a storm last week as part of Home Economics Institute of Australia’s Prepare, Produce Provide initiative.

The young cooks took part in various workshops throughout the day under the supervision of Crown Perth professional chefs, preparing fresh dishes to be distributed to disadvantaged people.

Home Economics Institute of WA chef Kelly Drake said from within a group of 12 Perth metropolitan area high schools, Bertram was the only primary school to take part in the program.

“Bertram students are the only primary school students to take part,” she said.

“The others who have been involved are Year 11 and Year 12 students who are working towards their Certificate II in Hospitality.”

School kitchen specialist Francine More said students had been involved in home economics classes since Year 3 and had developed skills beyond their years.

“The students have got really good skills because they have been involved in home economics since grade two or three,” she said. “Many of these kids can cook entire meals.”

Crown Perth chef Brendan Rose and apprentice chef Peter Oberman brought along special chef hats for the children and helped them prepare salmon skewers.