Housing association helps create a healthier nation

With growing concerns over additives in foods and the health of our children, Gallions Housing Association is taking action to help create a healthier nation. Hardworking employee, and former chef, Bruce Bishop has started a campaign to teach youngster about healthy eating and preparing basic dishes using fresh ingredients. 

 

Bruce kick started the campaign (15 May 2007) at St. John Fisher Primary School, Thamesmead, with an eight week cookery course aimed at 10 – 11 year olds. The youngsters were given the low-down on food hygiene and also had time to knock-up some simple sauces. Throughout the course they will learn to make more complex dishes and given advice on healthy eating. 

 

Bruce Bishop said: “As a former chef and parent, I am very concerned about what our kids are consuming. Eating healthily and preparing simple meals using fresh ingredients isn’t difficult. Children can do it; they just need to be shown how. If I can get just one child to think about healthy eating I will be happy. I also want to show children that eating properly and preparing simple dishes can be FUN”.

 

Mrs Wheeler, a teacher at St. John Fisher, said: The children thoroughly enjoyed the opening after school cookery class. The majority of the group are boys and it’s exciting to see them taking an interest in an activity outside of school and learning important life skills at the same time”.

 

If the course is successful, Bruce hopes to take it forward by setting up more classes in other schools in Thamesmead.