Shared Education partnership celebrate food together

Pupils explored the world of food with the help of local chefs and food experts, enjoying hands-on learning as they discovered flavours, traditions, and stories together—an occasion that fostered new friendships and strengthened their partnership.

Pupils from both schools took part in a hands-on culinary experience, working alongside a range of local chefs and food experts who generously shared their skills and passion. Kamal Mahal introduced the children to the flavours of Indian cuisine, helping them make fresh naan bread while exploring different curries and spices through tasting activities.

Chef Leah led a lively session where pupils prepared fresh salsa and guacamole, sampling their creations with tortilla crisps. The Street Kitchen’s Marty delighted the children by cooking fresh pancakes, which were enjoyed with a variety of popular toppings.  Local butcher Fintan from O’Doherty’s Butchers guided the pupils in making pigs in blankets using the business’s award‑winning black bacon, while Joe the Baker gave an insight into traditional baking by demonstrating the process of making sourdough bread, with plenty of opportunities for tasting throughout the day.

The event was expertly supported by staff from both Jones Memorial Primary School and Holy Trinity Primary School, ensuring a welcoming, inclusive and well‑organised experience. Pupils were highly engaged, asking thoughtful questions and showing great enthusiasm as they learned about ingredients, techniques and food origins.

The day also contributed to a shared project, with the children gathering ideas and recipes for a collaborative recipe book currently being developed by both schools. 

PEACEPLUS ASPIRE (Advancing Shared Partnerships through Inclusive Relationships in Education) is led by the Education Authority (EA), alongside Léargas, Early Years- the organisation for young children, National Childhood Network (NCN) and the Fermanagh Trust. The project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It aims to provide direct and sustained contact between children and young people from all backgrounds.