Prept, the inspirational children’s food foundation, is changing lives across Sussex

In the heart of Sussex, a revolution in food education is quietly transforming the lives of children and families across the UK. At its forefront is Prept, a national charity with roots firmly planted in Sussex soil, striving to create a healthier, happier generation through the power of food.

With the support of local businesses, world-renowned chefs and educators, Prept has reimagined the role of food education in schools, and the results so far are nothing short of extraordinary.

The challenges we face

Today, more than ever, children in the UK are at a critical juncture when it comes to their health and well-being. The statistics paint a stark picture:

• One in five 10-11-year-olds are now classed as obese.

• Children in deprived areas are twice as likely to be overweight compared to their peers in more affluent communities.

• Government funding for food education has been drastically cut, with a £5 million initiative to revolutionise school cooking scrapped after just 19 months.

These figures underscore the urgent need for change — and Prept is stepping up to the plate.

From Table Talk to Prept: a bold new vision

Founded in Sussex in 2020, Prept began its journey as the Table Talk Foundation. In just a few years, it has evolved into a dynamic national charity, recently rebranding as Prept to better reflect its expanded mission and ambitions.

Backed by an impressive roster of culinary talent, including Sussex’s own Jean Delport (Restaurant Interlude at Leonardslee Gardens) and Steven Edwards (Etch), as well as renowned establishments like 64 Degrees, Nostos, and Wild Flor, Prept is making waves in schools and communities alike.

Prept’s mission is clear: to empower children with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to make healthier food choices, foster a love of cooking, and explore career opportunities in the hospitality sector.

Inspiring success: what Prept has achieved so far

In 2024, Prept reached remarkable milestones:

• Over 2,100 children taught

• 135 in-school sessions delivered

• 27 ‘Farm to Fork’ days organised, connecting children with the origins of their food

• 13 holiday clubs launched, providing essential support during school breaks

• Three food festivals hosted, bringing communities together to celebrate food education

• A new parent-child session piloted, fostering family engagement in the kitchen

• The secondary school programme launched, offering older students hands-on experience with professional chefs and hospitality industry pathways

These achievements showcase the depth and breadth of Prept’s impact — and this is only the beginning.

SID Youth partnership: making a difference in Sussex

Prept’s collaboration with SID Youth’s HAF (Holidays Activities and Food – which is a Government-funded programme supporting children and young people during the school holidays, particularly those eligible for free school meals) group has been instrumental in bringing food education to young people who need it most.

HAF providers are typically tasked with organising and running activities that promote physical and mental wellbeing, as well as providing nutritious meals. Together, they have:

• Organised multiple cooking classes during school holidays, helping children and young people learn life skills while ensuring they receive a hot meal helping to alleviate holiday hunger

• Hosted a festival in Sompting, attended by over 600 young people, where participants engaged in produce identification and learned about nutrition in a fun and interactive setting.

• Delivered a Christmas meal for 40 children, an event made possible by Prept’s dedicated team. For some children, this was their only hot Christmas dinner, highlighting the profound impact of this initiative.

These efforts not only address immediate food insecurity but also foster a sense of community and empowerment among participants.

The role of local businesses: spotlight on Vistavis and Kitch

Tony Dorey, Managing Director of Vistavis (specialist commercial cleaning company), has been a steadfast supporter of Prept’s mission.

Vistavis sponsors Breakwater Academy in Newhaven, where 42.3% of students are eligible for free school meals (FSM). The school sponsorship has enabled:

• In-class food education programmes that engage students in hands-on learning.

• Professional ‘Farm to Fork’ days, where students gain insights into the journey of food from its agricultural origins to their plates.

Dorey shares his perspective on the school sponsorship: “The work that the Prept Foundation performs in terms of educating the youth on food and nutrition is crucial.

“I have been a part of the programme now for a few years and to see the results first-hand is truly heartwarming. We started sponsoring sessions in schools because we believe in the cause, but it wasn’t until we visited a session and saw the difference it made and just how engaged the children really are that we realised just how important the sessions are.

“Therefore, continuing to sponsor schools going forward became a no-brainer. It is a small contribution, but a very satisfying and rewarding one!

“Everyone involved in Prept is so passionate about what they are doing, the energy they give off is addictive! It is a pleasure to be associated with them.”

Kitch, the award-winning social media agency which specialises in food, hospitality and lifestyle is another valued long-term partner.

Pledging 1% of net profits to support Prept’s initiatives. Their contributions go beyond financial support, as they share their expertise and networks to amplify Prept’s reach. Highlights of this partnership include:

• Collaborating on influencer content creation for Prept, including a visit to Plumpton College to create engaging social media reels.

• Inviting Prept’s co-founders to speak at industry events, such as the launch of Kitch’s latest initiative with KAM Insight.

Kitch’s dedication exemplifies how businesses can leverage their unique strengths to make a meaningful impact.

The heart of Prept’s work: transforming lives through food

Prept operates through two key educational programmes:

1. Primary School Programme:
This initiative introduces young children to the joys of cooking and healthy eating. From exploring new tastes to learning essential kitchen skills, these sessions lay the groundwork for lifelong healthy habits.

2. Secondary School Programme:
By working with chefs and hospitality professionals, Prept inspires teenagers to explore the culinary arts as a potential career. This programme also emphasises practical cooking skills, creativity, and teamwork, ensuring students graduate with both confidence and competence.

One of Prept’s standout initiatives is its partnership with Plumpton College in Lewes. Here, the charity has funded the creation of a state-of-the-art training kitchen, giving students access to professional-grade equipment and the opportunity to learn about the ‘farm-to-fork’ journey.

Situated on a working dairy farm, the facility offers an immersive experience that bridges the gap between agriculture and gastronomy.

The role of Sussex businesses: a call to action

Prept’s incredible success is only possible thanks to the support of local businesses, organisations, and individuals who share its vision.

Companies like Exclusive Collection, Focus Foundation and and Higgidy have already partnered with Prept to champion this vital cause. But with so much work still to be done, the charity is calling on more Sussex-based businesses to join the movement.

“Sponsoring a school through Prept starts from just £1,000 and offers businesses a unique opportunity to make a real difference. By selecting the school and tailoring the sessions, companies can align the programme with their values while enhancing CSR initiatives and boosting employee engagement,” says Jessica Aggarwal, Co-Founder.

Supporting Prept is more than just an act of charity — it’s an investment in the future of our communities. By nurturing a generation that values health, sustainability, and the joy of cooking, businesses can make a tangible, lasting impact while also aligning themselves with a cause that resonates deeply with customers, employees, and stakeholders.

How businesses can get involved

There are countless ways for businesses to support Prept:

• Sponsorship opportunities: From funding school programmes to supporting food festivals, your company can help expand Prept’s reach.

• Employee volunteering: Encourage your team to get involved in hands-on activities, from running workshops to mentoring students.

• In-kind donations: Equipment, ingredients, and other resources are always in demand and can make a real difference.

• Fundraising events: Host events, challenges, or campaigns to raise funds and awareness for Prept’s mission.

Every contribution, big or small, helps Prept bring its vision to life.

Looking ahead: the future of food education

As Prept continues to grow, its ambitions for the future are bold. The charity aims to:

• Expand its reach to more schools across the UK, ensuring no child misses out on the opportunity to learn about food.

• Develop new programmes that engage parents, families, and communities.

• Forge stronger links with the hospitality industry, creating clear pathways for young talent to enter this vibrant and essential sector.

• Advocate for systemic change in food education, influencing policy to prioritise the health and well-being of future generations.

The time to act is now

The challenges facing children today — from obesity to food insecurity — require immediate and sustained action. Prept is rising to this challenge, but it cannot do so alone.

By partnering with this inspiring charity, Sussex businesses have the chance to be part of a movement that is transforming lives, communities, and industries for the better.

Get involved today

Prept’s journey is one of hope, innovation, and impact. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to build a strong foundation in food, fostering healthier futures for generations to come.

To learn more about how your business can support Prept, visit www.prept.foundation, follow them on Instagram at @prept.foundation, or contact the team directly at info@prept.foundation or 07568 321223.