New research reveals that 99% of parents recognise the importance of young people learning how to cook according to a new study by OnePoll. Despite this, 55% of young people are not confident cooking a meal for themselves or others, highlighting a major skills gap in the younger generation. The Scouts have today launched a newly cooked up Chef’s Badge for 10–14 year olds, in partnership with HelloFresh, updating a core Scouting skill for modern life.
Cooking remains one of the most valued life skills, but young people are unable to rustle up dishes such as soup (62%) or curry (68%), or even identify recommended portion sizes for everyday food items including vegetables (62%).
To help close this skills gap, The Scouts have unveiled a modern evolution of their Chef’s Badge in partnership with HelloFresh. From today, 127,000 Scouts will be able to work towards the badge, with new twists on requirements and the opportunity to use menu cards designed to help cook nutritious meals and understand portioning to reduce waste.
Marion Vosper, aged 11, a Scout who trialled the badge, said: “I loved trying the new Chef’s Badge. I learnt so many new skills like how to chop properly and make a meal from scratch. I didn’t realise how much difference the right portion size makes. I’m excited to try the recipes again at home.”
Ainsley Harriott, respected Chef and food education enthusiast, said: “It’s absolutely brilliant that HelloFresh is partnering with Scouts in order to encourage them to develop their taste in food. Cooking is one of the greatest gifts you can give a young person. When they learn how to chop, stir, taste and portion properly, you can see their confidence grow. Scouts already do brilliant things with food, this badge gives them even more reason to get stuck in.”
Today’s launch brings fresh energy and relevance to a long-standing Scouting skill. The Chef’s Badge gives young people the chance to build real confidence in cooking, offering a modern update shaped by the growing demand for practical life skills.
Dwayne Fields, UK Chief Scout, said: “I’m thrilled to see our reimagined Chef’s Badge launch today in partnership with HelloFresh. Cooking is one of the most important skills a young person can learn, it builds confidence, independence and a real understanding of the world around them. This badge gives Scouts the chance to cook tasty meals, understand portioning and reduce waste, all while gaining practical skills they’ll use for life. That’s what Scouting is about: helping young people grow into capable, thoughtful citizens who can make a positive difference.”
Scouts, through new activities, will have opportunities to learn and test their understanding of food storage and meal planning, develop their basic kitchen skills using a range of utensils and even create a speedy and nutritious meal – building on their teamwork skills.
More than one in two young people are not confident cooking themselves or others a meal, despite having the appetite. OnePoll’s research showed 90% of young people think it is important to cook and prepare their own food. The Scouts, with the support of HelloFresh, and today’s elevated Chef’s Badge launch, gives young people the opportunity to gain the life skills and confidence that they both want and need.
