Frequently Asked Questions

When considering which course to book there are a number of questions which, from time to time, our customers have asked us.

We thought that it would be helpful to include the most frequently asked questions below so that you can gain a better understanding about the way the courses at The Cooking School at Dean Clough are organized.

I AM A NOVICE IN THE KITCHEN, WHICH COURSE IS BEST FOR ME?

If you are unsure about your skills and the suitability of a course, don't be afraid to contact us. Most of our courses are suitable for experts as well as those with very little expertise in the kitchen - you'll be surprised at what you can do with some expert tuition.

I HAVE AN ALLERGY TO NUTS, CAN I COME ON A COURSE?

Where possible we will do our best to accommodate those with allergies. However, we do ask that you contact the School to check if the course is suitable for you to attend. It must be noted that the Cooking School may have allergenic products or their derivatives on the premises even if they are not specified in the course content.

I REQUIRE GLUTEN-FREE FOOD, CAN I COME ON A COURSE?

Whilst every effort will be made to accommodate people with special dietary requirements, please note that due to the format of the courses, it may not always be possible. We would advise contacting the Cooking School prior to making your booking to discuss course content. Occasionally specialist courses may be offered.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ATTEND EACH COURSE?

The Cooking School can hold a maximum of 20 people per session.

CAN I COME ON A COURSE BY MYSELF?

All our courses are suitable for an individual to attend, you'll meet plenty of like-minded people on the day. Of course we welcome pairs, couples and groups of friends - however if you come alone you are guaranteed an enjoyable, entertaining and informative day out.

CAN I BOOK MY CHILDREN ON A COURSE?

You must be 16 or over to attend all courses unless otherwise specified in the course details.

ARE COURSES SUITABLE FOR MEN AND WOMEN?

The range of courses we offer are suitable for men and women. Most courses have a balance of male and female participants.

I HAVE A GROUP OF FRIENDS WHO WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND TOGETHER. IS THIS POSSIBLE?

The maximum number of people we can take on a course is 20. If there is a group of you wishing to attend a course you can all attend together. If you are interested in hiring the Cooking School for a private event you need to contact us and we will be happy to discuss your ideas.

MY FRIEND IS BRINGING ME, CAN THEY STAY AND WATCH?

We are sorry but we cannot accommodate friends or partners to observe your cooking day, but you will have the opportunity to take some of the food home you have created to share with them. If someone is travelling with you to Halifax there are lots of things for them to do in and around the town.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING WITH ME?

We will provide all you need for an enjoyable and relaxed day of cooking. You may wish to bring a coolbag to take home your food if you have a long return journey to make.

WHAT DO I HAVE TO WEAR?

Please wear comfortable, closed-in low-heeled shoes as you will be on your feet for most of the day. If you have long hair we would advise you tie it back during the course. Aprons will be provided.

WHAT IS THE TIMETABLE ON THE DAY?

The classes start at 9.30am prompt. Registration and refreshments are available from 9.00am. Your day will finish at approximately 4.00pm. A typical day in the Cooking School would be:
9.00am Join us for a cup of tea or coffee with a Cooking School 'speciality'.
9.30am Welcome and introduction to the course and an overview of your day followed by demonstrations by our top team of tutors then straight into cooking it yourself.
11.30am Mid-morning break for a cup of tea or coffee with homemade biscuits or cake.
11.45am Demonstrations by our top team of tutors then straight into cooking it yourself.
1.30pm Break for lunch.
2.15pm Return to the Cooking School to learn to cook and create some more magnificent dishes.
4.00pm Finish the course and take home your delicious dishes. You will also have time to visit the shop.

WILL LUNCH BE PROVIDED ON MY COURSE?

Lunch will be provided during the whole day courses and will usually include some of the delicious food you have cooked during the morning.

WILL I BE ABLE TO TAKE MY FOOD HOME?

Yes of course. The food you make on the course will all be carefully packaged and chilled if necessary ready for you to take home and share with friends and family. You will be given full instructions on how to reheat your food safely. You will be given a bag to transport the food home but you may wish to bring a cool bag with you.

WILL I GET COPIES OF THE RECIPES TO TAKE HOME?

You will get a copy of all the recipes you have made and also copies of any that have been demonstrated by our tutors.

CAN I BUY GIFT VOUCHERS?

A Cooking School gift voucher makes a unique gift. You can buy them online or by phone. They can be used for any course leaving the recipient to decide the course they wish to attend. The gift vouchers are valid from 12 months from the date they were purchased. The purchase date and expiry date are written on your voucher.

I'D LIKE TO BOOK MORE THAN ONE COURSE, CAN I GET A DISCOUNT?

If you wish to book more than one course we will give you a 10% discount providing all the courses are booked at the same time. Please call us to arrange your discount.

IS THE COOKING SCHOOL ACCESSIBLE FOR DISABLED PEOPLE?

The Cooking School is fully accessible for disabled people and there is a workstation especially for those who use a wheelchair. Please let us know your requirements when making a booking, we will be pleased to help in any way we can.

FURTHER QUESTIONS