Eurocook T2011

The aim of this project is to teach language skills and knowledge of another cuisine and culture at the same time as catering skills.

The project is a pilot using the Italian language but it can equally be delivered in other languages as appropriate. The learning will be linked to cookery sessions and will encompass Italian cuisine.

The project is a partnership with the Modern Foreign Languages Department of Monmouth Comprehensive School (MCS) and the Network. The linked cookery sessions will be led by Franco Tarucshio OBE, Michelin Starred Chef, with an emphasis on seasonality, using local produce and an introduction to the culture of the country. The pilot will involve Year 8 at MCS. This is the year before GCSE choices are made and will mean that pupils have an idea of what is needed for a career in the tourism and hospitality industry in the Vale of Usk. The skills gained will also add value to the pupils’ curriculum, in particular the Welsh Baccalaureate (BACC).

There is to be three phases:

1. Four hours of language learning as part of the extra curricular provision at MCS. An introduction to Health and safety. The language lessons will include vocabulary related to the cookery sessions, for example ingredients, equipment – and recipes. Four two hour sessions in the School kitchens led by Franco Taruschio, (Italian Michelin starred chef) when the students will learn how to cook various Italian dishes, using local produce. Italian will be the main language of communication during these sessions. Language teachers will be in the kitchen for these sessions to provide linguistic support to the participants. All activity will be mapped to the Welsh language. The kitchen session will be observed (where appropriate) by media studies students who may be called upon to film the activity
2. Digital skills – A project website will be developed which will allow for replication of the process and activity to be shared widely. Media studies students will help in the development. A DVD will also be produced for distribution to other schools and interested parties.
3. A practical event will close the project and will showcase the skills (culinary, linguistic and digital) and lessons learned by the participants.

MCS has applied for £1215 from the LEADER fund