2025 Food Educator of the Year Sara Randle, Sir William Stanier Secondary School, Crewe

Sara has taken her role of Food Teacher to the next level – not only sharing her much-needed brilliant skills with her students, but also with the wider community, too. This is food education that changes lives.

In her 25-year career, Sara has done far more than teach students to cook. She’s created a school-wide culture where food brings people together, inspires careers, builds confidence, and offers real-life skills that last far beyond the classroom.

In fact, Sara’s influence stretches far beyond the school gates too. She opens her classroom doors to local primary schools, so that children as young as Year 2 get the chance to fall in love with cooking. And in her after-school cooking clubs, students often work alongside family members, strengthening bonds and sparking joy around the dinner table.

Sara loves to show her students that cooking isn’t just about food on a plate. That’s why it was incredible when she secured funding to build a rooftop allotment, wildflower meadow and school pond, helping pupils grow their own ingredients as part of a true ‘farm-to-fork’ journey. 

Trips to local farms, food factories and hospitality businesses also give students real-world exposure, while in-school sessions with professional chefs help spark ambition and show what’s possible in careers in food.

There’s no doubt that Sara’s passion is felt far and wide in her community, because she was nominated no less than thirteen times for this award – including by her school, colleagues, family and also local MP! This is one special lady. Congratulations!

• The Sir William Stanier School has also been recognised by the Food For Life initiative, which celebrates a commitment to providing high quality food education and promoting sustainable practices within the school community (Foundation award). 

WHAT THE CELEB JUDGES THOUGHT…

“All of the candidates were very worthy winners, however Sara’s work is truly inspiring. She’s not just teaching recipes, she’s teaching confidence, care, and creativity. It’s clear how much her students and community adore her, and it’s a joy to see someone using food to make such a meaningful difference in young people’s lives.” Jessie and Lennie Ware

“Sara’s the kind of teacher who changes lives,” said Jamie Oliver. “She’s shown that good food education isn’t just about cooking, it can also spark confidence, curiosity and connection. She’s a total star, and I’m so pleased we can celebrate her.” Jamie Oliver

WHAT THE EXPERT PANEL THOUGHT…

“Outstanding adoption of a whole-school approach. Lovely to see nominations from a range of voices. We are pleased to see the incredible impact this individual is having at the school.” 

Huge thanks to our partners Tefal and technology partners Wonde for making the awards possible.