- Home
- Health Topics
- Programs and Resources — Nutrition
- You’re the Chef (Cooking Program)
You’re the Chef (Cooking Program)
What is You’re the Chef (YTC)?
YTC is a cooking program with a focus on fruits and vegetables for students in Grades 5, 6, 7, and 8. Students will learn:
- Safe food-handling and basic kitchen safety
- Food skills by preparing a variety of healthy recipes
- About healthy food choices
How does You’re the Chef work?
YTC is run in the community or in the school setting by volunteer leaders, including community members, school employees, parents, grandparents or university/college students. To become a leader, individuals must attend a free half day leader training session provided by a Registered Dietitian from the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit. Leaders will receive a training manual that includes instructions and forms needed to run the program.
Where does You’re the Chef take place?
YTC can be run in schools or community settings as long as there is a clean area with tables, close access to two sinks, electrical outlets and some funds to purchase food.
How long are You’re the Chef sessions?
YTC leaders will learn how to customize sessions by choosing recipes and activities that fit the time-frame that works best for each program.
Who can benefit from the You’re the Chef program?
While YTC was originally designed for students in Grades 5-8, the program can be adapted to a variety of groups. Anyone who wants to develop the skills and confidence required to safely prepare healthy meals and snacks can benefit from the program.
If you are interested in becoming a trained volunteer leader or would like more information about the You’re the Chef program, please call the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit at 519-426-6170 or 905-318-6623 and ask to speak with the dietitian.