Hear from our franchisees

Val - Mid Wales

Description

Hi, I'm Val – the proud mum of four wonderful boys, two of whom are now chefs! Cooking has always been a big part of our family life, and I’ve loved watching my sons grow into confident, creative cooks who enjoy making meals for friends and family.

Bringing Cook Stars to Mid Wales is a dream come true. I’m passionate about helping children (and adults too!) build life skills, boost confidence, and discover just how fun and rewarding cooking can be. I have a real love for Italian cooking, especially making fresh pizza—it’s simple, sociable, and always a hit in class! There's something special about everyone getting hands-on, creating their own pizza from scratch, and watching it bake into something delicious.

I truly believe that time spent in the kitchen is time well spent. It enriches everyone’s life—whether you're preparing a meal for others or just for yourself. Focusing on creating food can help you unwind, relax, and connect with the moment. My hope is to give children the confidence to experience this joy for themselves.

Whether it’s a weekly class, a school holiday workshop, or a birthday party, I aim to make every session relaxed, friendly, and full of joy. At Cook Stars Mid Wales, we provide everything—ingredients, equipment, and even aprons—so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm.

When I’m not in the kitchen, I love spending time reading, writing, and renovating my Victorian house—it’s a work in progress, but full of character (just like a good recipe!).