A WOKINGHAM-based oven cleaning business has announced a new initiative to support the next generation of cooks.
Ovenu is offering schools the chance to claim free Gredi-Boxes for their pupils.
Designed by Ovenu, these can make it easier for pupils to take their cooking ingredients to school, and allows them to measure out and transport exactly what they need for the lesson.
Rik Hellewell, the founder and managing director of Ovenu, said: “We’re pleased to launch this initiative to help schools inspire the next generation of cooks and bakers.
“Cooking is an essential life skill that teaches responsibility, creativity, and nutrition – abilities that are under threat as more young people and families turn to takeaways for convenience.”
Ovenu says its Gredi-Boxes remove the need for parents to buy full-sized packs of ingredients like flour and sugar for cooking lessons, instead allowing pupils to take pre-measured, exact quantities, which also reduces food waste.
Each box has three main sections – one for pre-prepared items, a section to keep ingredients fresh and dry, and a durable deep lid allowing the finished dish to be safely stored on its homeward journey.
It also includes 100 self-seal mini-bags for small quantities of solids or liquids, together with four 100ml bottles, two of which are ideal for transporting egg yolks and whites, and means that students don’t need to carry multiple containers of ingredients to school.
Rik Hellewell continued: “One of our main objectives is to save parents hundreds of pounds during the three years pupils are required to attend cooking classes.
“Taking a few minutes weighing and measuring the correct quantity of items at home, that are probably already in the kitchen cupboard, will save parents an awful lot of money.
“It’s a process that encourages children to get more involved in food preparation, promoting healthier and more affordable eating habits while saving valuable time during cooking lessons.
“I hope this initiative brings a small but meaningful benefit to both schools and families.”
Ovenu is offering schools the chance to claim £11,000 worth of its Gredi-Boxes.
It has 600 – in cases of 20 – to give away, which will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis.
Schools can collect a maximum of five cases, by arrangement from its headquarters in Wokingham, Berkshire.
For schools further afield, delivery can be arranged at a modest courier fee of £15 for the first case and £10 for each additional case.
Any schools interested in the offer should call Ovenu, on: 01189 743911, or email [email protected].
For more information, visit: ovenu.co.uk