Young Salford chefs shine in healthy cooking competition

The competition brought together Year 4 and Year 5 pupils from Christ Church CofE Primary School, Eccles, and St Mary’s CofE Primary School, Cadishead, who wowed judges with their creativity and enthusiasm for healthy eating.

Organised by Citywide Services’ as part of its ‘Food for Champions’ initiative, the competition encouraged children to explore nutritious ingredients and develop practical cooking skills in a fun, supportive setting. The competition forms part of a wider campaign to promote healthy school meals and raise awareness of the benefits of good nutrition for learning, growth, and overall wellbeing.

Councillor Barbara Bentham, Lead Member for Neighbourhoods, Environment and Community Safety, celebrates the launch:

 "I was thrilled to be asked to take part in this fantastic event which was the culmination of months of hard work from the Citywide team and the Development Chefs who have been working with children and parents in schools, teaching simple and healthy recipes and learning about where food comes from. It’s important to make nutrition fun and engaging - it’s clear from what we saw today, everyone involved had a great time and there was so much talent on display.

Events like this make healthy eating real and enjoyable for children, giving them confidence in the kitchen and a better understanding of what goes into a balanced meal. We want all our young people to have the best start in life, and initiatives like ‘Food for Champions’ help encourage children and their families to make nutritious choices every day."

The finalists impressed with colourful, well-balanced dishes, showcasing their knowledge of healthy ingredients and careful preparation. Teachers, fellow pupils, parents, and council staff were on hand to cheer them on, while judges faced the tough task of selecting winners from an outstanding field.

Cookery Competition finalists: Erica Karabab (Year 4), Christ Church CofE Primary School; Emily Vital (Year 5), Christ Church CofE Primary School; Arabella Wegener (Year 4), St Mary’s CofE Primary School; Helaina Lee Edwards (Year 5), St Mary’s CofE Primary School. 

Cookery Competition winners: Arabella Wegener (Year 4), St Mary’s CofE Primary School; Emily Vital (Year 5), Christ Church CofE Primary School.

For more information about Citywide and their services, visit Citywide Services’ website.