As far back as I can remember I’ve been most happy in the kitchen. Cooking and making meals for family and friends.
This sent me on a journey to Leeds catering college at age 16, for 2 years gaining catering and hospitality experience. I spent 4 years at Manchester Metropolitan University studying hospitality management. After university I worked in two hotels in the Manchester area until family life took over.
I have always wanted to run cookery classes from my home with the shmooze experience (coffee & cakes) whilst others would watch me cook. It didn’t happen, I found people weren’t interested in committing to courses and I put the idea to the back of my mind.
Nearly 6 years ago I was approached to teach GCSE food & nutrition in a local school and for five and a half years I was teaching food and nutrition at GCSE level. In my time at the school I produced a school recipe book, which is used in other girls schools in Manchester, London & Gateshead. I helped design a new kitchen for the school and I hope I imparted some of my wisdom and care towards the girls that entered my classroom. I was keen to develop a relationship with my pupils so that the classroom was an enjoyable place.
As with many people these days, Covid 19 arrived and for whatever reason, I wasn’t to be returning to the classroom in September. During lockdown I organised a zoom bread plaiting session for friends around the world. I’d also teamed up with a local Manchester organisation to run a few “bake & learn” sessions. Then I had my lightbulb moment.....I really enjoyed these cookery classes online......I was cooking and teaching all at the same time, sharing tips and tricks of the trade. I was in my element!
I started with an Adults class, inviting men and women. It was received well with people asking if I did classes for kids, So I started them as well. Then I thought there must be an opening for men only classes. The dishes we make are suitable for family evening meals and some for special weekend meals. I try to keep costs low and introduce new flavours and ingredients.
