Hackney Scouts Launch New Cooking Badge with Ainsley Harriott on BBC Breakfast
Scouts from the 63rd Hackney Scout Group have taken center stage in launching the Scouts' next-generation Chef's Badge, appearing on BBC Breakfast alongside renowned TV chef and food education advocate Ainsley Harriott. This national unveiling marks a significant update to a long-standing Scouting tradition, now infused with modern culinary priorities.
National Television Debut for Young Chefs
On Monday, March 9, two members of the 63rd Hackney Scout Group, Renaie Campbell (10) and Jack Oliver (13), joined Harriott live on BBC Breakfast to showcase the refreshed badge program. Their Scout section, catering to young people aged 10 to 14, was the first in the United Kingdom to pilot the updated badge. The duo also participated in a national photoshoot and now serve as the public faces of the new partnership with HelloFresh, the official sponsor of the Chef's Badge.
Modern Skills for Today's Youth
The revamped Chef's Badge introduces contemporary cooking skills and addresses current priorities for young people. More than 127,000 Scouts across the UK will now have the opportunity to work towards earning this badge, with new requirements that emphasize reducing food waste and understanding proper portioning. Research conducted by OnePoll for HelloFresh reveals that 55% of young individuals lack confidence in cooking meals for themselves or others, highlighting a critical gap in essential life skills.
Jack Oliver, a Scout from the group, shared his experience: "I'm fortunate to have been encouraged to help cook at home, but since pursuing my Chef's Badge at Scouts, my confidence has soared. I've progressed from merely assisting with meals to taking full leadership in the kitchen. This program has genuinely equipped me with the skills to prepare complete meals for myself and my family."
A Memorable Experience for Young Scouts
Renaie and Jack have enjoyed an eventful few weeks, participating in the national launch and making their live television debut with former Scout Ainsley Harriott.
Renaie Campbell expressed her excitement: "It's been an incredibly fun period. I had the chance to meet Ainsley, work towards my Chef's Badge by learning new skills and cooking my favorite dishes like pasta, and travel to Manchester for the TV appearance—all within my first few months of moving up to Scouts. I've had an amazing time, and Scouts has provided me with opportunities I never imagined possible."
Energizing a Traditional Skill
The updated badge injects new vitality into a classic Scouting skill, offering young people the chance to build kitchen confidence through a program tailored to the increasing demand for practical, everyday abilities.
Ainsley Harriott commented on the initiative: "It's absolutely fantastic that HelloFresh is partnering with Scouts to encourage them to develop their culinary tastes. Cooking is one of the greatest gifts you can give a young person. When they learn proper chopping, stirring, tasting, and portioning techniques, you can visibly see their confidence grow. Scouts already excel with food-related activities, and this badge provides even more motivation for them to dive in enthusiastically."
Scouting Impact and Community Involvement
The 63rd Hackney Scout Group is one of approximately 7,000 Scout groups throughout the UK, all operated by dedicated volunteers who deliver life-shaping opportunities and essential skills to over 140,000 young people. This initiative underscores the Scouts' commitment to fostering practical competencies that prepare youth for independent living.
