LMC cookery demonstrations return for 2026

The body confirmed that bookings would open on Monday 2nd March 2026 at 9:00am.

Delivered by LMC’s cookery demonstrators, the sessions will be available to Key Stage 2 classes (P5-P7) across Northern Ireland. LMC highlighted that each demonstration would aim to support 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 more than 15,000 pupils each year and looks to provide 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 stated that 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 aims to build foundations, strengthen awareness and grow demand for NIFQA 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.”