Hampton Academy’s Experiential Learning Program Visits Culinary Playground in Derry

HAMPTON — Students of Hampton Academy’s Experiential Learning Program (ELP) and Inspire Program stepped into the role of chefs during a field trip to The Culinary Playground, a youth culinary school experience, located in Derry.

The trip, organized by Hampton Academy administrators and special education faculty, provided opportunities for students of the programs to branch out from their studies and potentially find a new activity they can be passionate about or pursue, while providing enjoyable activities to build teamwork and collaboration skills amongst each other.

Before the trip, students voted on the menu they would prepare. The winner was a turkey, and cheese sandwich on homemade pretzel rolls with cranberry mayonnaise, a side of seasoned pita chips, along with dirt pudding cups for dessert.

At the end of their time at the Culinary Playground, students got to enjoy their work, tasting their meals while interacting with each other. 

“The fact that students were able to participate in this event while applying and evolving their teamwork skills and knowledge received from their studies is gratifying for all of us,” said Principal Dr. Neal Campbell.

Throughout the experience, students practiced essential cooking and life skills such as measuring ingredients accurately, managing heat and cooking times, and following recipes step-by-step. They also made connections between cooking and academic subjects like math and science, applying concepts such as fractions, temperature, and chemical reactions in real-world situations.

In addition to kitchen skills, students learned about communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and food safety. They discovered that successful cooking requires patience, cleanliness, and focus — and that even simple tasks like washing hands or organizing tools are essential for safety and success.

“This trip was foundation-building for each of our students in this program,” said Superintendent Dr. Lois Costa. “The skills built at the Culinary Playground, whether it be culinary skills or collaborative skills, can be effectively used to craft their futures as professionals.”