With a steadfast mission to empower young care leavers on their journey to independence, the academy offers a unique blend of culinary education, life skills training, and hands-on experience.
Auntie's Cookery Academy, a groundbreaking charity founded by culinary enthusiasts Emily-Jane Dale of Auntie Em’s Kitchen and Bhavna Patel of MK Cookery School, is poised to revolutionise the landscape of youth empowerment in Milton Keynes.
In a community grappling with a rising number of young people in care, Auntie's Cookery Academy steps in to address a critical need. By providing essential skills and opportunities, the academy serves as a beacon of hope for these vulnerable individuals as they navigate the transition into adulthood.
"Through Auntie's Cookery Academy, we're not just providing a handout; we're offering a hand up," says Emily. "We believe in equipping these young individuals with the tools they need to thrive independently, both in the kitchen and beyond."
At the heart of Auntie's Cookery Academy's approach lies the belief in building confidence and self-sufficiency. By empowering young care leavers with culinary skills, employability training, and the chance to manage a social enterprise – a 'Food Truck' – the academy creates a platform for these individuals to lead and succeed in the real world.
"Each student at Auntie's Cookery Academy is not just learning to cook; they're learning to collaborate as part of a team," adds Bav. "Our commitment goes beyond the kitchen as we actively connect our students with local businesses, providing them with tangible pathways to success and employment."
Moreover, Auntie's Cookery Academy is tackling food insecurity head-on. In a community where a significant percentage of children are living in poverty, the academy plays a crucial role in providing access to creating nutritious meals and teaching budgeting skills to promote healthier lifestyles.
Working in collaboration with the MK Social Care team and Learn Plus Us, Auntie's Cookery Academy has developed a pioneering curriculum to ensure these vital skills are learned in preparation for independent living. This innovative initiative is set to pave the way for similar programs nationwide, with the support of MK Council.
"Auntie's Cookery Academy is not just a charity; it's an opportunity for young care leavers in Milton Keynes," says Emily. "We're shaping a brighter future for our community, one meal at a time."
With a mission to empower young care leavers on their journey to independence, the academy is set to commence its inaugural program in April 2024. However, they can't do it alone - they need the community's help to make it happen.
"We're thrilled to embark on this journey to empower young care leavers in Milton Keynes," says Bav. "But to make our pilot scheme a reality, we need the support of our community."
The pilot scheme, scheduled to commence in April, aims to provide essential skills and opportunities to young care leavers. However, donations are needed to cover various costs associated with the program:
· £10: The essential cost of food for one lesson for one young person
· £120: Covers the cost of food for one student to complete the course
· £800: The cost of one student to complete the 12-week course
· £10,000: The pilot scheme can commence!
"We believe that every young person deserves the chance to thrive independently," adds Emily. "But we need your support to make it happen. Your donations, no matter how big or small, will make a real difference in the lives of these young individuals."
Auntie's Cookery Academy is committed to shaping a brighter future for young care leavers in Milton Keynes, but they can't achieve this vision alone. They're calling on the community to join them in making a difference.
For more information about Auntie's Cookery Academy and how to donate, visit the website or contact info@auntiescookeryacademy.co.uk
