Food education and cooking programmes for young Londoners
Through weekly sessions led by professional chefs, young Londoners develop practical life skills and connect with their peers — improving their health, confidence, and employment prospects.
Alongside our core youth programme, we also run hospitality career-focused courses that give young people real industry experience, as well as cooking sessions that bring parents and children together.
Outcomes we work towards
Watch one of our sessions in action
This video shares case studies from our signature ‘Young Chef’ food education programme, delivered in partnership with Young Hackney’s Young Carers service — supporting children and young people aged 6–19 in Hackney who care for a family member with a disability, illness, or other needs.
The programmes we run
Young Chefs Programme
Our core food education programme for 11–24-year-olds, delivered after school and during school holidays. Participants learn practical cooking skills, food safety, budgeting, and how to make simple, nutritious meals — all tailored to the needs of the local community.
Hospitality Kickstart Programme
A week-long introduction to culinary and hospitality careers. Young people gain hands-on cooking, barista, and waiting experience, including days spent working alongside industry partners, and leave with a Food Safety & Hygiene certificate.
Family Cooking Programme
Delivered in Family Hubs, community centres, and schools, our family cooking sessions help parents and children build confidence and skills in the kitchen together.
Young Leaders Programme
A year-long paid internship for 16–22-year-olds. Young people gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and career development — while directly shaping our programmes and services from the inside.
Who we work with
Eat Club supports vulnerable youth in London, including NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) individuals, PRU (Pupil Referral Units) students, refugees, young carers, and those facing homelessness. These young people often experience food poverty, poor nutrition, and limited opportunities. Our programmes aim to empower them to break the cycle of disadvantage and build better futures.
Where we work
We partner with youth centres, food and homelessness charities, schools, and community centres to reach those in need. For our Hospitality Kickstart course we collaborate with local food businesses, like Caravan and Dusty Knuckle, offering professional cooking experience and industry exposure to expand employment opportunities for young people.
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Our partners and supporters
