Our annual Culinary Competition brings KS3 students together from across the Trust to show off their food skills and imagination. It’s not just about cooking—it’s about thinking carefully about what people want to eat and how to bring those dishes to life from a set list of ingredients.

Students at Grange have taken part in a Culinary Challenge at their school judged by a mix of Academy Community Pioneers and staff. Our Grange students worked really hard to complete their dishes. 

Those who win their regional heat go on to represent their academy at the Grand Final at Angel Square, the heart of the Co-op. There, finalists cook in the inspiring Co-op Foodology kitchens, using what they’ve learnt to impress the judges one last time. One student will be crowned overall winner and take home the trophy.

But there’s more to it than just winning.

This challenge helps our students:

• Think about different kinds of customers and what they want to eat

• Plan and develop recipes from specific ingredients

• Work together, stay organised, and build confidence in a practical, hands-on way

This is all part of what makes our education offer unique—bringing learning to life and helping our young people build the skills they’ll need for the future.

Because at Co-op Academies Trust, we believe in doing what matters most—and helping every student grow in confidence, creativity, and care for others.