Partnership to educate children on cost-effective cooking

Chapter restaurant in Greenfield Crescent, Edgbaston is teaming up with Martineau Gardens the free entry, two and a half acre community garden (an oasis for wildlife, bees and plants) also in the heart of Edgbaston.

Chapter state they are captivated by Martineau Gardens ' charitable aims to inspire people about the natural environment and their superb work in running educational programmes and Holiday Activity schemes for children. They recognise the therapeutic aspects of gardening and social interaction, supporting a large network of volunteers and introducing school children to the food cycle.

With Chapter 's emphasis on British seasonal produce and a menu that is nature-led and ethically sourced, this partnership is a natural fit and will celebrate throughout the year how food gets from garden to plate.

The Gardens have applied to run a two-week playscheme in the school summer holidays for up to 50 children who qualify for income-based free school meals, running nature, art and play activities and providing lunch each day. As part of this, Chapter 's executive chef Nathan Swift will prepare a cooking event and a celebration lunch at the end of each week for children and their parents.

During the autumn harvest period, Nathan will work with Martineau Garden 's team on a bespoke 'ground to plate ' educational programme linked to the primary science and DT curriculum. This will involve introducing children from primary schools within half a mile of the Gardens to fresh produce from the garden and turning it into a delicious, cost-effective meal.

It has never been more important to educate children in the food cycle, increasing their access to healthy food and supporting a sustainable future.

Chapter staff will be treated to an away day at the gardens over the summer and the kitchen will be sourcing their honey through the Gardens ' productive bee hives.

For more information on how to support Martineau Gardens, visit their website.