A Revolutionary Chef in the Classroom: Mearns Primary's Path to Culinary Excellence
In an inspiring development in the field of education, Sharon Hunter, the headteacher of Mearns Primary School and Nursery Class in East Renfrewshire, has garnered national recognition for her transformative work in food education. Honored as the School Food Leader at the 2026 Jamie Oliver Good School Food Awards, Hunter's efforts have made food education a fundamental part of school life.
A Quiet Food Revolution
For several years, Sharon Hunter has been spearheading what she refers to as a "quiet food revolution" in her school. Under her leadership, the once-standard classroom has been transformed into a fully equipped teaching kitchen, where cooking is now a central aspect of the curriculum. Children from nursery through Primary 7 are now mastering the skills of cooking, understanding ingredients, and preparing meals from scratch.
Endorsements from the Community
The positive impact of Hunter's initiatives has not gone unnoticed. The judging panel, including prominent figures such as Joe Swash and Dani Dyer, praised her for creating a lasting and positive change in how food education is perceived. Swash, in his remarks, highlighted the importance of equipping children with essential skills that enhance their confidence and future culinary endeavors.
Creating a Culture of Curiosity
Mark Ratter, director of education at East Renfrewshire Council, commended Sharon for her drive and determination in cultivating a culture of curiosity and creativity around food. Students are now enthusiastic about their lessons, actively engaging in the skills they are developing. Parents have also been included in the process, participating in sessions that explore diverse cuisines from around the globe, thereby fostering a sense of confidence and connection within the school community.
A Broader Learning Experience
Sharon's innovative approach extends beyond the classroom. She has implemented a ‘Gastronomers’ pathway, emphasizing the importance of food education alongside core subjects like reading and maths. Students grow fruits and vegetables in the school garden, cook with seasonal ingredients, and share meals with their peers, teachers, and families—all experiences that bolster their confidence in the kitchen and encourage them to try new foods.
Community Support and Resources
Further demonstrating her commitment, Sharon successfully rallied support from the local council and raised over £10,000 through the PTA to fund Spark Park, an outdoor learning space equipped with cooking facilities. This endeavor, in partnership with Architecture Scotland and Scottish Power, aims to enhance the educational experiences of the students with outdoor cooking facilities.
A Taste of the Future
The transformative journey of the pupils is captured through the words of Jonathan Sloane, a parent, who expressed pride in his child's newfound cooking skills. An inspiring tale from a pupil named Sophie Sloane reveals the joy of seeing her parents enjoy the dishes she prepared, affirming the meaningful impact of this culinary education.
The Jamie Oliver Good School Food Awards continue to celebrate the tireless work of schools and individuals like Sharon Hunter, who are shaping a healthier, happier future through outstanding food education. Mearns Primary School stands as a prime example of how educational environments can innovate to foster essential life skills in children, ensuring their growth into confident and capable individuals.
