Pupils at Willowtown Community Primary School, Ebbw Vale, have taken learning beyond the classroom by creating and publishing a unique children’s community recipe book, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of their local area.
The project, which was entirely pupil-led, saw children select recipes from families within the local and multicultural community, including treasured dishes passed down through generations. From start to finish, pupils researched, wrote, and illustrated the book themselves, demonstrating creativity, teamwork, and a strong sense of community.
Designed as a child-friendly, beginner-style cookbook, the publication aims to encourage families to cook together, build confidence in the kitchen, and inspire independence. Professionally collated and designed, the book carries an official ISBN, giving it a polished, published finish.
Headteacher Mel Evans said:
“This project is a fantastic example of pupil voice and creative learning in action. Our children have worked incredibly hard to produce something meaningful that celebrates both learning and community.”
Year 5 pupil, Caleb Rich, said
“The potatoes and lettuce we have grown in our community garden were taken into the Big Bocs Bwyd Shop and some parents took them home and made a healthy meal. I enjoy learning about how to grow food and how to make it healthy.”
The school also has a Big Bocs Bwyd community shop, garden/growing space and kitchen. Food Literacy is delivered from Nursery to Year 6 where pupils are given opportunities to learn where their food comes from, how to develop healthy, nutritious meals, cooking skills and the importance of food security and redistribution within community.
Learners are encouraged to be independent and take active roles in the garden and shop, allowing them to develop numeracy and literacy skills alongside social and emotional skills to support wellbeing. This is all supported by a group of trusted parent volunteers whose support continues to make the project a success.
The Council is exploring the Blaenau Gwent Deal, a new way of working with communities with the aim of addressing inequalities and building something better together. Willowtown are really helping to promote and support healthy lifestyles and community wellbeing.
You can purchase a copy of the book from the school or Amazon, and it will be stocked this year’s Hay Festival. If you are a local business who would be happy to stock the book please get in touch with the school on 01495 355400.
