We're record breakers

Students at Stalybridge-based Works4u are celebrating becoming ‘Record Breakers’ after taking part in a Guinness World Record attempt. 

The record challenge bid was held in conjunction with Jamie Oliver’s online cookery school classes, with students invited to join in and attempt to break the record for the largest cookery session ever at multiple sites. 

The previous record from 2015 and the one to beat was 6,778 participants  - all cooking at the same time. 

But this year that record was totally smashed, with a total of 10,515 students across six continents and 42 countries helping to break the world record - with the Works4u students helping to tip those record breaking cooking scales.

The Works4u students had one hour to make homemade pasta with a tomato and garlic sauce. They watched Jamie’s chefs online masterclass via Zoom and then followed his instructions. 

The record attempt was mostly targeted at schools and colleges, to show children and young people how easy it is to make meals and build their confidence with food.

The cookery lesson was held by Jamie’s Chef Krzysztof Sumik, with Jamie himself getting stuck in!

The lesson was mandated to be at least 30 minutes long and took just under an hour to complete, with participants eating their bowl of pasta at the end of the lesson.

Jamie and Krzystof lent their expertise throughout the class, demonstrating the simple foundations of cooking.

Across the world, people cooked up tasty pasta in school classrooms, office meeting rooms and even patio gardens!

It took a couple of days for the evidence to be submitted and counted, with the record being officially confirmed on Monday.

Mark Hyde, Centre Manager, said: “I was in awe of our students. Every single one of them put in 100 effort and dedication and it was a pleasure to be part of  the event.”

Wendy Mackie (MBE), Works4u Managing Director added: “It just demonstrates what our students are capable of achieving. Everyone involved worked so hard and it was a tremendous team effort.” 

Dylan (one of the students) said: “I’m really proud of myself and glad that I joined the team.”

Jamie Oliver stated: “We did it! I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve broken the  Guinness World Records title for the largest cookery lesson (multiple venues) ever. 

“It just goes to show what an impact we can have when we come together to celebrate the joy of learning how to cook. 

“We couldn’t have done it without everyone who joined the class – so thank you, each and every one of you, and cheers to us!