IT could be scene out of Masterchef, chefs feeling the heat as guests are seated waiting in eager anticipation for a delicious and freshly prepared meal.

But this is no restaurant; rather it is a classroom in Kearsley West Primary School where children are preparing for their future — quite literally.

High academic standards — as stated in the recent Ofsted report — are a priority at the school but for headteacher Lesley Cooper so are lifeskills, and the two go hand in hand.

The school runs a Chefs of Future group annually for year six as part of the school's teaching of healthy lifestyles and to develop the skills they need for when they are adults.

The young chefs have a chance to prepare and cook a meal once a month for guests and teachers.

Mrs Cooper said: "I'm waiting for time when I see one of our pupils on Masterchef and say they were inspired by the school!

"Cooking is now part of the curriculum but we have been teaching this essential lifeskill for many years.

"It is an incredibly important skill to be able to cook fresh food and try different foods.

"We had one pupil who said she did not like courgette but after eating the vegetarian lasagne she had helped make she enjoyed it.

"It is about trying different foods.”

Under the watchful eye of staff, children help to prepare and cook the food.

Mrs Cooper said: "The children put a lot of effort into it, and they are using what they have learnt in class, such as maths, English and other subjects it is a real life application of their skills.

“Children are also developing their social skills.”

She added: “Teachers come every month because they want the food.

“At the same time teachers have an opportunity to speak to children and have a conversation in a different, more informal setting, which helps them find out how they can help the pupils more in school.”

Now the school is hoping they can enlist the help of the community to create an allotment in the grounds to take their project further, where children can grow and then cook their own food, as well creating an outdoor school resource.

Limited budgets mean the school does not have the cash and would like the community to pitch in and help the youngsters develop their skills.

Mrs Cooper said: “We would really like any advice and help members of the community could provide to help set it up.”

The Chefs of the Future programme is proving to be a big hit with the children.

Max Woodward, aged 11, said: “When we first started as Chefs of the Future it was a bit scary, but we have so much fun.

“We have learnt to cook more dishes, like vegetarian lasagne and we helped cook Christmas dinner.

“We have to work as a team. Eating healthy food gives you more energy and you feel better.”

Tamara Greenhough, aged 11, said: “It does feel a bit like being on Masterchef sometimes!

“Learning about healthy eating is important and that you can have treats as well.”

She added: “I feel more confident in preparing my own food at home if I need to and I help make Sunday lunch.

And as part of the programme the children get to enjoy a meal at Smiths restaurant in Eccles – after having a chance to quiz the chef.

See more pictures at The Bolton News