SEND children learn cooking skills at Ferndown classes
Dorset Council's funded the course, and will expand them next year
Children in Ferndown with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) have been learning some cooking skills with Dorset Council.
Five sessions have been held for up to 15 children, aged between 5 and 13 years old.
The course has been brought in to address a gaps in holiday activities for this age group, with children making an afternoon tea, cooking pizzas, and baking cupcakes.
Each child has been provided with aprons, chef hats, and bowls to take home, encouraging them to continue practicing their new skills outside of the sessions.
The programme's had positive feedback, with one parent sharing: "It's so lovely to see my child so engaged in this activity and look forward to the school holidays so we can come back."
Children themselves are equally enthusiastic, asking: "What can we do next time?"
Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education, and Skills, said: 
"This is a fantastic example of a community-led program making a real difference. The dedication shown by everyone involved, and the joy it brings to children and their families, is great to see."
Nicky Hornsby, manager at The Centre in Ferndown said:
"Following discussions with parents of children who have SEND, it became clear that there were limited activities available during the holidays for children over the age of 5 and under 12.
“Seeing the pride the children take in their work and the joy it brings to families makes this programme so important. We are grateful for the support of the East Locality LAG, and we look forward to delivering even more sessions in the future."
Due to increasing demand, sessions for children without additional needs will also be introduced next year.