Community class boosts cookery confidence in Blaenau Ffestiniog

‘Potensial’, the Adult and Community Learning provision at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, delivers ‘Cookery for Beginners’ at various community locations across Gwynedd and Môn. Participants enrol for an initial six weeks with the opportunity to continue over the term or academic year.

Through hands-on cooking sessions delivered at ‘Y Ganolfan’ in Blaenau Ffestiniog by course leader Louise Howe, participants learned invaluable skills including cooking on a budget, preparing meals from scratch, and minimising food waste.

In partnership with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Cassie, a member of their Dietetics Team, also led a nutrition-based cookery session for the participants, enriching their understanding of the vital link between nutrition and overall well-being. By combining practical cooking demonstrations with nutritional theory, Cassie provided the group with a holistic approach to healthy eating.

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with learners expressing new-found confidence in their cooking, and a deeper appreciation for the importance of nutrition on a day-to-day basis.

Eric Williams, one of the participants, explained:

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the cookery sessions and have learned such a great deal - like how to cook delicious meals without breaking the bank and to appreciate cooking fresh food as opposed to chucking something quick in the microwave.

“I've also learned to eat much healthier, which is vital to me in my career as a martial arts instructor, learning about different food groups, and their benefits to our bodies. The class has changed my eating habits, and made me want to learn more, and delve deeper into learning more."

He added: “I highly recommend the course, and look forward to joining the next class once they begin again in September. Thanks to our awesome tutors - Louise and Cassie - for sharing valuable knowledge with us all.”

Louise Howe said: “Our informal community cookery classes are a fantastic way to develop your confidence in the kitchen to cook meals from scratch and reduce reliance on ultra processed foods.”

She added: “We show you how simple it is to cook nutritious and tasty food on a budget. Participants also report an overall improvement in their wellbeing. The best part is you get to take what you’ve cooked home!”

For those interested in participating in future cookery courses or learning more about Potensial's other part-time courses, please e-mail communitymenai@gllm.ac.uk or call 01286 673450