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There was a wonderful sense of anticipation across the school today as we welcomed a true visionary to RMS. We were delighted to host Dame Prue Leith for the official opening of our brand-new professional kitchen — a centerpiece of our partnership with her Academy and a vibrant new space where our pupils can truly thrive. This facility further enriches our unique Level 3 Extended Certificate in Professional Cookery, providing an elite setting for mastering Practical Cookery, Food Hygiene, Allergen Awareness, and Menu Planning.
At RMS, we believe in providing an environment that thinks differently, and this state-of-the-art facility is designed to do exactly that: nurturing creativity and shaping the futures of our aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The morning kicked off with an energetic , ‘quick-fire’ Q&A, featuring one of our Leiths students in the interviewer’s chair. With Sixth Former Sophie expertly capturing the session on film, it was a proud moment to witness our students take the lead with such poise, confidence, and genuine curiosity.
Prue then joined Mrs. Walker’s Year 7 lesson in our recently refurbished F&N rooms. Watching our younger pupils being mentored by our Leiths students and sharing their work with a culinary icon was a joy; Prue’s encouragement perfectly mirrored our own commitment to making every individual feel valued and seen.
Whether they were perfecting a technique or discussing ingredients, the atmosphere was one of kindness and genuine ambition. Mrs. Yvonne Mackey, Head of Food and Nutrition, commented: “Cooking is a lifelong skill, and it is an honour to share my passion for nutrition and cooking skills with our 9 to 18-year-olds in such an inspiring setting. With the full support of the RMS senior management team, we are able to make food education a truly transformative experience for every pupil.”
Sixth Form student Beatrice commented: “The Leiths cookery course has taught me how to cook complex dishes with confidence. I have really enjoyed being taught in a safe, supportive environment by teachers and members from the Leiths programme. I will be able to use these important skills I have developed throughout my life.”
Cutting the Ribbon, Opening Doors
The official ceremony was a highlight for the entire community. In a creative nod to the setting, Prue and Yvonne performed the official opening by cutting both a ceremonial ribbon and an edible ribbon. Speaking on the importance of the new facility, Prue Leith shared:
“The most important thing is to teach children to cook at schools. And not only to cook, but to understand where our ingredients come from.”
Maria Dunbar, CEO of Leiths Education, commented on the vision of the Leiths School partnership and how it empowers pupils to thrive:
“Our partnership reflects a commitment to inspiring the next generation through culinary education. By bringing professional training into schools like RMS, we nurture confidence and independence, empowering pupils to develop life skills and explore exciting careers in the food world.“
Louise Kissane, Leiths Culinary School Director, on the importance of high-quality facilities in shaping the future of young culinary talent:
“Professional facilities like the new kitchen at RMS are vital for turning passion into a career. They provide the inspiring environment necessary to develop the standards and confidence the culinary industry needs.“
Shaping Future Paths
The celebration continued in “the Space,” where some of our year 7 pupils as well as F&N GCSE pupils and Sixth Form students gathered for a more personal look at Prue’s journey.
Our Head of Sixth Form, Mrs. Clare Freeman, observed how these opportunities define the RMS experience: “Whether our students intend to pursue a career in the food industry or simply want to master a vital life skill, the Leiths qualification gives them the courage to pursue their ambitions with a unique edge.
The course offers exceptional flexibility, for some, it serves as a valuable addition to their A Levels, allowing them to pursue a personal passion.
For others, it is a core choice for those aiming for a professional career in the industry. With its heavy emphasis on practical application, the qualification acts as a direct bridge to the workplace. Since its launch last year, we have been delighted by the high level of student enrolment and enthusiasm.”
A Welcoming Community
The visit ended on a high note with a gift presentation of RMS honey, wildflower seeds, and student-baked biscuits — a small gift representing the heart of our thriving community.
With the ribbon now cut, this kitchen becomes a vibrant hub of opportunity, ensuring every pupil is equipped with the skills and confidence to shape their own future.
From the Archives: RMS Food and Nutrition Over the Years
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