PUPILS at an Earley school gained some valuable lessons in life at a culinary day course.
Year Seven students at Maiden Erlegh School in Silverdale Road took up the Focus on Food Taste Bud Challenge on Wednesday last week, a national scheme aimed at encouraging baking.
The day involved making both homemade cakes and ones using a packet mix before comparing the differences in their texture, colour and shape.
Chefs from the Moat House restaurant at Sindlesham Mill were brought in to encourage debate among the 12-year-olds and provide valuable advice about the role of different ingredients.
Pam Walton, head of food and textiles technology at the school, said: "The day was excellent for children because it taught them not only the science of food, but also the skills necessary to prepare and bake it."