This year, our students and staff have come together to create the very first Earlscliffe International Recipe Book, a collection of 40 recipes designed to be healthy, easy to make, and perfect for sharing as a community activity.
The idea was inspired by a local Folkestone charity, the Rainbow Centre, celebrating its 40th anniversary. In support, our school pledged to collate 40 recipes from across our international community. The result is a unique book that reflects the diverse backgrounds, traditions, and creativity of Earlscliffe students and staff.
A huge thank you goes to Miss Russell, who spearheaded this campaign with great energy and vision.
House Managers played a key role in this initiative, helping to establish strong routines and healthy habits, while recognising international days, cuisines, and customs. Through food, students celebrated holidays, explored different cultures, and strengthened their bonds all while learning lifelong skills.
Importantly, the recipe book is also being used as the foundation for our university cooking skills classes, held every Wednesday afternoon as part of Earlscliffe’s Enrichment programme. We understand the importance of teaching students key life skills that will equip them for independence at university and beyond.
Each week, students select a recipe from the book, learn how to prepare it together, and then share the finished meal. These sessions encourage collaboration, curiosity, and confidence in the kitchen, as students enjoy learning not just from Miss Russell but also from each other.
By the end of term, Miss Russell hopes the group will prepare a special meal for the Senior Leadership Team and their friends to enjoy.
The Earlscliffe International Recipe Book embodies our values:
- Community – bringing people together across cultures and traditions.
- Respect – recognising and appreciating diversity through shared experiences.
- Personal Development – learning skills for healthy, independent living.
- Curiosity – exploring global cuisines and cultural traditions.
- Aspiration – striving to create a positive impact within and beyond our school.
At Earlscliffe, food is more than nourishment; it is a way to connect, celebrate traditions, and learn from one another.
As part of our local outreach focus this academic year, the cookbook also strengthens our connection with the wider Folkestone community, building empathy, understanding, and a spirit of collaboration.
The Earlscliffe International Recipe Book is more than just recipes; it is a celebration of who we are, the skills we share, and what we can achieve when we come together. Miss Russell also organises annual Christmas food collections from staff and students in support of the Rainbow Centre, a Christian charity working in the Folkestone and Hythe district to support and empower individuals and families experiencing deprivation and hardship, helping them build a future with stability, dignity, and hope.
We look forward to sharing photos of the meals created in our cooking skills sessions and, hopefully, many success stories!
Categories: General News