Across schools, students were highly engaged in the hands-on cooking experiences, building confidence in the kitchen while learning about healthy, nutritious foods. 

Our nom! facilitators noted clear evidence of learning carrying beyond the sessions themselves, with many students returning for a second visit having cooked nom! recipes at home using the program recipe booklets. Their skills and confidence noticeably improved, highlighting the practical and lasting impact of the program made possible through ongoing funding support.

Teacher feedback reflected the high level of engagement and value delivered through the incursion. A primary school teacher shared, “The students had a great time and are still talking about it. It was one of the most engaging incursion experiences that we have had.” Another described the sessions as well organised and engaging, praising the presenters for creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Secondary school teachers also emphasised the educational benefits of the program, particularly the strong links to curriculum learning. One teacher commented that students enjoyed trying new recipes and tasting a range of healthy dishes, while gaining a deeper understanding of the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating and the importance of nutrition for healthy growth and development. A Teacher at John Forrest Secondary College reflected on the broader impact, noting that while students often default to quick and convenient food choices, the nom! sessions demonstrated that healthy meals could be prepared easily within an hour, were visually appealing, and tasted great.

The social connection the program encourages was evident and students particularly valued the opportunity to cook together and share the food they had prepared in a banquet-style setting. Teachers observed a strong sense of pride as students tasted their meals and tried foods they might usually avoid. At one of the schools the key messages students took away included the importance of eating a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables, following the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating, and being open to trying new foods and healthier cooking methods – such as toasting wraps instead of choosing processed snacks. Importantly, many students discovered that healthy, nutritious food can be both delicious and enjoyable.

Teachers overwhelmingly expressed their support for the program and a desire to be involved again in the future showing the need for the program in schools. With strong participation, positive feedback, and support from Mineral Resources and PLS, nom! Schools continues to play an important role in building students’ food skills, confidence, and understanding of healthy eating – both in the classroom and at home.

We sincerely thank Mineral Resources and PLS for their generous support of the nom! schools program. Their commitment to supporting community health and education has made it possible for hundreds of students across Western Australia to develop practical food skills, confidence in the kitchen, and a lifelong understanding of healthy eating.