A former teacher has opened a new children's cooking school in Chester.

Drawing on years of experience working with young people, Francesca Sykes, owner of Cook Stars Chester, delivers hands-on cooking classes that help build independence, spark creativity and develop essential life skills.

"I've always loved cooking and seeing children discover that same joy," Francesca told Nub News.

Her passion for teaching began at a young age, inspired by her "Nana," who first nurtured her love of cooking. Those early experiences shaped her belief that children learn best through experimenting with food, a philosophy she brings to every Cook Stars class.

Part of the wider Cook Stars group, the programme blends food awareness with practical skills and social development. Sessions are intentionally kept small, giving children the guidance and space to learn at their own pace in a relaxed environment.

Francesca is also committed to helping children develop a healthy understanding of food.

Cook Stars Chester was launched by former teacher Francesca Sykes (Image supplied)

"A lot of kids now often don't even really know where food comes from," she said. "We want children to understand the different types of food they're consuming and understand things like moderation."

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With lessons being group-based, the sessions also focus on children's social interaction and teamwork, going beyond simply teaching practical cooking skills.

Francesca added: "Food is something that can really bring community in a way that a lot of other things can't. They're interacting with each other in a really natural way, where perhaps it doesn't feel as pressured or forced as it might in somewhere like school."

The hope for the classes, the owner explained, is that children develop a love of cooking that lasts - having developed experiences that extend beyond the kitchen.

"We want children to have the opportunity to build skills for life. My dream is that Cook Stars Chester will grow into a meaningful community," she added.

"I want children to be able to take their experiences from Cook Stars into their future, with an increased skill set, a sense of achievement, healthy relationships with food, and greater confidence."

Cook Stars Chester currently runs classes at multiple Chester sites for children aged two to 11, with plans to introduce more advanced "academy" sessions for older children.

You can find out more about Cook Stars Chester here.