A Michelin-starred chef and his specialist grower visited a Northumberland school to help with its harvest-themed initiative.

Cal Byerley, chef-owner of Restaurant Pine, and Dan Clark, one of Pine’s specialist growers, spent time with pupils at Wylam First School on September 30. 

The visit was part of the school’s first-ever 'Foodie Fortnight,' linked to the harvest festival.

The duo from Pine chatted with the pupils about the school allotment project and their favourite foods.

The pupils were given a glimpse of the dishes that could potentially be created with the fresh produce from the allotment.

They also shared some insider tips to prepare the pupils for the 'Tiny Tasters' cookery sessions which were also part of the school's 'Foodie Fortnight'.

During these sessions, each year group will 'harvest crops and create healthy seasonal dishes.'

This initiative aims to make the children think about the produce harvested from their allotment, how they 'grew it, tended it, and the sorts of things they had to do to try and keep their leeks, potatoes, carrots, courgettes, and their orchard fruit crops healthy and edible.' 

Mr Byerley and Mr Clark also donated edible plants to the allotment, including lemon verbena, which they helped year four pupils plant.

Year 4 pupils from Wylam First School working in the school allotment Year 4 pupils from Wylam First School working in the school allotment (Image: Wylam First School) The school has had a 'long-standing interest in food and sustainability' and created an allotment space in 2020.

The space allows every year group across the school to get involved in 'experiential outdoor learning.'

Mr Byerley said: "It’s really important to encourage the next generation to think about food, where it comes from, how it's grown and then cooked." 

He added: "Involving pupils in the whole growing cycle not only equips them with invaluable skills but also encourages them to live healthy and active lives as they develop into future adults."

Jill Dodds, Wylam First School’s headteacher, said: "Our children love being outside.

"Mrs Gibbon created the allotment which provided us with the perfect opportunity to create a bespoke curriculum for our allotment. 

"With the support of Paul Mordue from Wild About Adventure, each year the children move through the school with a different responsibility for the allotment."