MINI MasterChefs at Broad Oak Primary swapped the classroom for the kitchen as they took part in the Children’s Food Trust Big Cookathon.

The annual event aims to show children and adults across the country how fun cooking can be by encouraging them to cook and eat a healthy meal made from scratch.

The children got to grips with preparing a true British classic, the Cottage Pie, with assistance from St Helens Council’s executive development chef, Andrew Ferguson and members of the council's Healthy Living Team.

“Cooking a meal from scratch is an essential life skill which, I believe, should be encouraged from an early age,” said Andrew.

“Not only does it educate children about healthy foods and a healthy lifestyle – but the job itself is creative and great fun for all the family to get involved in.”

Melanie Hignett, head teacher at Broad Oak, added: “Taking part in the Cookathon enabled the children to solve a range of different problems, as the task involved a perfect mixture of all three of the main curriculum subjects, English, maths and science.

“It was fascinating to watch the children work together to prepare and cook a Cottage Pie which, may I add, tasted absolutely delicious.

“We’re already looking forward to taking part again next year.”