Bendigo Foodshare’s Cooking for Change program is about much more than teaching young people how to cook – it’s about connection, confidence and community.
Each program begins with an in-class presentation about food insecurity. For some students it can be the first time they understand services that are available if they, or someone they know, needs food relief support. It also serves to break down any stigma in accessing food support. The session continues with hands-on cooking sessions co-designed with schools to meet the unique needs of their students. The result is a tailored experience that fosters inclusion, practical skills and the spirit of giving back.
Over the past 12 months, supported by Bendigo Community Health Services and Healthy Loddon Campaspe, Cooking for Change delivered 27 sessions across eight secondary schools and one community house. A total of 158 students took part, preparing more than 2,600 meals – with over 1,200 donated to local food relief. Teachers say the program is arriving at a crucial time, as more students are coming to school hungry and struggling to concentrate in class.
The benefits are clear – evaluations showed 81% of participants would recommend the program to a friend, with the four biggest takeaways being:
- Increased skills and knowledge in food preparation, safety, and healthy eating
- A sense of connection and belonging
- The pride of giving back to the community
- Fun and enjoyment in learning together
Students reflected on the impact in their own words:
“I learnt a bunch of new skills and connected with new people.”
“I feel proud knowing the meals we cooked are going to people in need.”
“I didn’t know that there are places we can go to ask for food if we’re hungry.”
For some, the program has been life-changing. One teacher described a usually timid student who said it was one of the best days they’d ever had at school. Following the day, they continued to carry the program flyer folded in their pocket all day, touching it to remember how good they felt.
This year, Cooking for Change worked with schools and partners across the region including Weeroona College, Bendigo Senior Secondary, NETschool, Crusoe College, Eaglehawk Secondary, Bendigo TAFE, Castlemaine Secondary, and more.
Here’s how Cooking for Change came to life at Weeroona College Bendigo:
Case Study: Cooking for Change! at Weeroona College Bendigo
Empowering Students to Lead Food System Change
Bendigo Foodshare’s Cooking for Change program at Weeroona College Bendigo piloted a model that empowers students to influence their school canteen by designing, cooking, and sharing healthy, culturally relevant meals. Delivered across three sessions to two student groups—VPC/VCE Year 11–12 and EAL Year 8–10—the program combined food literacy, cooking skills, and social impact.
Program Highlights
- Student-led meal design: Students selected meals in consultation with the Cooking Teacher and Canteen Manager, ensuring suitability for batch cooking and canteen service.
- Cooking and sharing: Each session produced 50 serves, shared with peers for a gold coin donation and supplied to the canteen. Students also sat down together to enjoy the meals they prepared.
- Cultural relevance: Meals reflected the cultural backgrounds of participants, including Thai basil stir-fry and chili con carne.
- Food literacy and advocacy: Students explored food security, food waste, and the role of the canteen in supporting healthy eating and food access.
Student Impact
- VPC students built foundational cooking skills, learning to prepare fresh vegetables and navigate food safety. They cooked pasta sauce, stir-fry, and fruit crumble, gaining confidence and pride in sharing meals with their school community.
- EAL students, many from Karen, Thai, and Filipino backgrounds, demonstrated strong kitchen skills and engaged deeply with food security discussions. They explored unfamiliar dishes, practiced English through cooking, and reflected on their own experiences with food insecurity.
“I didn’t know there are places we can go to ask for food if we’re hungry.” – Student
“I learnt how to prepare fresh garlic – I had only used garlic from a jar before.” – VPC Student
“The sessions were really valuable, especially for one student who thrived in the kitchen.” – EAL Teacher
School and Community Feedback
The program received enthusiastic support from Weeroona College staff and the broader school community. Students raised $100 through meal sales, which helped
purchase new cooking equipment—co-funded by Healthy Loddon Campaspe. The initiative fostered pride, teamwork, and a sense of purpose among students.
“There was great feedback from the school community, especially through our College Facebook posts.” – Vice-Principal
The school recognised the program’s unique value in enabling students to contribute meaningfully to their community, advocate for healthier food options, and build connections across the school.
