Meet Kaye Merrill: Our Year 11 Teaching Assistant and Cooking Tutor
By Mark Cullen
Welcome to our vibrant school community! We are delighted to introduce Kaye Merrill, who wears many hats as our Year 11 Teaching Assistant and talented Cooking Tutor. With her rich background in the culinary arts and a passion for teaching, Kaye has become an integral part of our educational team, bringing enthusiasm and creativity into the classroom and beyond.
Kaye's impressive journey in the culinary world began at Hartford College in Cheshire, where she earned her City & Guilds qualification. This marked the first stepping stone on her path to becoming a skilled cook and a nurturing educator. But she didn’t stop there! Kaye continued to hone her skills at Warrington Collegiate, where she completed her NVQ Level 2 in pro-craft catering. It’s safe to say that Kaye was committed to mastering the culinary arts, and her determination certainly paid off.
Her training didn’t stop at college; Kaye gained invaluable experience working in renowned establishments. One of her most notable experiences was at the Midland Hotel in Manchester, a place celebrated for its impeccable cuisine and service. Here, Kaye had the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business, sharpening her skills and discovering innovative cooking techniques. Additionally, her time at Statham Lodge in Lymm enriched her culinary repertoire, giving her insight into both traditional and contemporary cooking styles that she now shares with our students.
Before joining our team, Kaye dedicated an impressive 23 years to Warrington Borough Council. In her previous role, she engaged with the community, working closely with various groups and individuals to promote healthy eating and cooking practices. This experience laid a solid foundation for her transition into education, allowing her to connect with young people in a meaningful way as a Teaching Assistant and Cookery Tutor.
At our school, Kaye is particularly enthusiastic about reintroducing cooking into the curriculum for all our students. She believes that every child should have the opportunity to learn the essential life skill of cooking while also enjoying the fun and creativity that come with it. Cooking is not just about following recipes; it encompasses teamwork, patience, and the joy of creating something delicious. Kaye skillfully intertwines these lessons into each session, encouraging students to express themselves while they learn.
As we approach the festive season, Kaye has an exciting array of cooking projects lined up for our young people. There is something truly magical about baking in the run-up to Christmas, and Kaye is eager to share that love with her classes. Over the next few weeks, students will be making delightful stained glass biscuits, which are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! The vibrant colours of the sweets used to create the glass-like effect are sure to inspire creativity and bring a sprinkle of joy to the kitchen.
But wait, there’s more! Gingerbread is another classic that Kaye will be introducing. Who doesn’t love the smell of gingerbread wafting through the air? Students will have the chance to explore different shapes, decorations, and icings, making their own unique creations. And let’s not forget about chocolate truffles – a perfect sweet treat that will surely bring smiles all around!
Through these cooking sessions, Kaye encourages our young people to work collaboratively, learning how to support one another while embracing their culinary creativity. From measuring ingredients to presenting their delicious creations, students can take pride in what they accomplish. Kaye's nurturing approach ensures that her classes are not only educational but also a wonderful experience where students can bond and share laughs.
And speaking of deliciousness, did you know that Kaye’s favourite dessert is crème brûlée? This classic French treat epitomises everything that Kaye loves about cooking: the rich flavours, the balance of textures, and that delightful moment when you crack the sugar topping to reveal the creamy goodness beneath. It’s no surprise that crème brûlée serves as an inspiration for her teaching, as she encourages students to explore a variety of flavours and techniques that can lead to their own signature creations.
As we look to the future, Kaye Merrill is committed to continuing her journey with our students, nurturing their love of cooking and fostering an appreciation for the culinary arts. With her extensive experience and genuine passion for teaching, Kaye is an invaluable asset to our school community. We are beyond thrilled to have her on board, and we can’t wait to see what delicious projects she and our students will whip up together next!
