Saturday saw over 50 Cheltenham College Junior School pupils enjoying a history lesson with a difference – stepping back in time to the days of World War 2 food and rations. The pupils, along with an intrepid group of Mums, Dads and a Gran spent the morning learning how to cook (and survive!) authentic wartime recipes.

Using only the rationed ingredients available at the time and with the help of a parent and teacher, each group prepared a different recipe. Every dish was then popped in the oven, with sampling of the culinary delights(!) taking place just before midday. Recipes included Commando Casserole, Lord Woolton’s Pie, Workingman’s Pudding, Victory Salad, “Dig for Victory” Dish – many heroic and inspiring dishes named to entice.

Helping them plan their recipes were the pupils’ own specially created ration books in which they had noted everything that they currently eat and drink in a standard day. Not only were they able to compare the amount of food rationed but ultimately appreciate how easily it is to take pasta, chocolate and even fresh fruit for granted. 

Derek Maddock, Head of History at Cheltenham College Junior School commented: “Children in Year 5 learn about WW2 as part of their study of their recent past. There are many family connections still to be made with WW2 and spending a morning cooking authentic wartime dishes is a great way of learning about family life at this time. Writing their ration books soon brought home to the children that their wartime counterparts may not have had chocolate for 6 years, may never even have seen an orange and only had one egg a fortnight! With only 2 ounces of sugar or cheese a week, and certainly no pizza, pasta, curry or burgers – pupils soon questioned how they survived. However, as they found out, the food might have been distinctly lacking in colour but it could still taste good. Some were a little nervous of trying something new while others tucked in with relish. Some are even planning to cook the same meal at home!”

We're delighted that the Echo came along for this event - please click here to download the newspaper article!