The Countryside Kitchen Opens Its Gates: Groundbreaking Farm-Based Classroom Launches to Reconnect Communities with Food, Farming and Wellbeing

On Tuesday 8th July 2025, a pioneering new classroom set in the heart of a working farm in Northamptonshire officially opened its doors.

The Countryside Kitchen is the flagship project of not-for-profit social enterprise No Fuss Meals for Busy Parents CIC, and aims to educate and inspire all ages from primary school children to their parents with the story behind their food and empower them to create healthy meals for themselves.

The initiative is the brainchild of Milly Fyfe—a farmer, mother of two, social entrepreneur and award winning campaigner who continues to thrive despite living with a spinal cord injury.

This one-of-a-kind, immersive classroom is based on a ‘Grow, Cook, Eat, Discover’ model and through hands on learning will enable children, community groups, and families to engage with nature, understand where food comes from, and learn how to prepare simple, nutritious meals from scratch. The project also plans to offer corporate wellbeing days in the future, with all trading income reinvested into supporting its educational mission.

Milly Fyfe, Founder of the CIC, explains: ‘We are currently conducting research into consumer behaviour around food purchasing and preparation. We know from previous engagement events and feedback that consumers are actively involved with improving their wellbeing, but the issue is that too many lack the skills and knowledge to do it – which is where the concept of No Fuss Meals for Busy Parents came from.

“We wanted to build something truly special—where young people and adults alike can experience the joy of growing food, cooking it, and understanding how the natural environment underpins our health and communities. The Countryside Kitchen is rooted in education, resilience, and accessibility. It’s a space for curiosity, learning and understanding of UK food production- something that we believe is vital for everyone’s wellbeing.”

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support so far. The Countryside Kitchen has been made possible through crowdfunding, grants, and the tireless work of volunteers, with support from prestigious funders including The National Lottery Community Fund and The Royal Society of Chemistry. Despite this progress, ongoing support is still needed to sustain and grow the project – so do get in touch if you can help in any way!.

Lessons will begin in earnest in the classroom in September but in the meantime, if anyone is interested in booking a group session or wants more information please email: contact@thecountrysidekitchen.co.uk