School kitchen will give Midleton children 'invaluable cooking and baking skills'

An East Cork primary school has celebrated the opening of a brand new kitchen which will give pupils the opportunity to learn cooking and baking skills which will stand to them through life.

Pupils, staff, and families gathered last week at Scoil Bhríde in Midleton to celebrate the grand opening of the school’s new student kitchen.

School principal Séamus O’Connor said the kitchen had been made possible through the fundraising efforts of the group Friends of Scoil Bhríde Midleton, and the support of the school community.

“It stands as a testament to the school’s long-standing vision of hands-on, practical learning,” he said.

“With this kitchen, students will have the opportunity to learn invaluable cooking and baking skills, fostering independence, confidence, and a greater understanding of food and nutrition.”

Mr O’Connor offered “a heartfelt thank you to the Friends of Scoil Bhríde Midleton, our supportive and kind families, local businesses, and all who played a role in making this dream a reality”.

During the official presentation, special recognition was given to the Presentation Order, the school’s founders, and Mr O’Connor said the order’s dedication to education and life skills remained deeply rooted in the school’s ethos.

The kitchen was launched by local businessman Josh Spillane, from Cornerstone, who spoke of the importance of instilling cookery skills in young people.

“Food is essential for health and life,” Mr Spillane said. “Children gaining a sense of creation of ingredients at an early stage is so positive and inspiring.”