An apron, a recipe and a table of ingredients gave our Grade 7 learners a different way to put their learning to work. On 30 May 2025, during a practical cooking activity at Leonard Chileshe Mulenga Memorial School in Makeni, Lusaka, they prepared food, tried cooking techniques and shared the satisfaction of presenting a meal they had helped to make.
The session explored a range of methods, from flambé and stir-frying to grilling, baking and blending. Chopping and preparing ingredients were part of the work too. Each method called for attention to the task: understanding the steps, choosing the right approach and taking care over the finished dish. The photographs show the learners with their food, sharing meals and standing proudly beside their presentations.
There is a particular confidence that comes from being able to say, “I made this.” For a child, a finished dish is something concrete to show for the effort involved. The food on the table made that effort visible, while the shared meal gave learners a chance to enjoy what they had achieved together.
Practical skills that support learning
Cooking brings several classroom skills into one practical task. Reading a recipe calls for understanding and following instructions. Measuring ingredients uses number skills. Preparing different parts of a meal requires planning, patience and decisions about timing. Working alongside others also creates opportunities to listen, share responsibilities and solve problems. These are useful habits in schoolwork as well as everyday life.
At Leonard Chileshe Mulenga Memorial School, our commitment is to help learners work towards their best academic results while developing the ability to use what they know. Activities such as this support our primary school programme by giving children opportunities to practise, make decisions and take responsibility for a piece of work. Academic progress and practical competence both deserve careful attention.
Good results require consistent effort. A single activity cannot replace the daily work of teaching, practice and revision, but it can give learners another reason to engage with their lessons. Our school is committed to creating opportunities that strengthen understanding, encourage perseverance and help children approach new challenges with greater confidence. Read more about Leonard Chileshe Mulenga Memorial School and the purpose behind our approach to education.
Working towards each learner’s best
To our Grade 7 learners, well done for the work you put into preparing and presenting your food. Thank you to the staff who made this practical learning opportunity possible. We are pleased to celebrate both the dishes on the table and the growing independence behind them.
Families who would like to learn more about joining Leonard Chileshe Mulenga Memorial School can explore our admission process or contact the school to discuss their child’s needs and arrange a visit.
Be different.
Moments from the day
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