LMC announces return of primary school cookery demonstrations

THE Livestock and Meat Commission for Northern Ireland (LMC) has announced the return of its fully funded primary school cookery demonstrations, with bookings opening on Monday 2nd March 2026 at 9.00am.

Delivered by LMC’s experienced cookery demonstrators, the sessions are available to Key Stage 2 classes (P5-P7) across Northern Ireland. Each demonstration supports curriculum learning while giving pupils the opportunity to experience a recipe being prepared and sample fresh, locally produced Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured (NIFQA) beef and lamb.

The cookery demonstrations form part of LMC’s wider education programme, which reaches over 15,000 pupils each year and provides a comprehensive package of resources to schools. This includes the Farm in a Box foundation years toolkit, teacher upskilling workshops, and a range of classroom materials designed to introduce young people to nutrition, provenance and the local agri-food industry.

LMC’s education programme is a cornerstone in delivering value for levy payers. By engaging young people at an early age, the programme ensures the consumers of tomorrow understand the nutritional benefits of beef and lamb, while also appreciating the broader role of agriculture in supporting local communities and environmental stewardship. Each demonstration, classroom activity, and teacher workshop helps build foundations, strengthen awareness and grow demand for Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured beef and lamb, ensuring levy investment delivers measurable, lasting returns.

Commenting on the programme, Lauren Patterson, Head of Marketing and Communications at LMC, said: “LMC’s education programme has been delivering meaningful engagement for almost 30 years, demonstrating our long-standing commitment to supporting teachers and connecting with young people. Primary school provides an ideal opportunity to begin conversations around food, farming, and nutrition. We are also delighted that every pupil will take home a NIFQA beef and lamb recipe book, helping to spark conversations beyond the classroom and encouraging families to cook with locally produced beef and lamb.”

Bookings will open via LMC’s dedicated education website at www.lmceducation.org.uk and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.