Questions Fréquemment Posées
How does the program work?
Chef à l’École provides an interactive cultural experience for French students. Students have the opportunity to expand their current vocabulary while baking French inspired recipes from scratch. Our Chefs will share a curriculum based French cultural story while treats are in the oven. In celebration, the students will eat their creations.
Does your program qualify for the Cultural Grant?
Absolutely we do! The Chef à l’École program has proudly qualified for the Grant for several years. The grant can often subsidize or cover the cost of the booking. If you need more information we direct you to your French Consultant or we may be able to assist you as well.
What space is required for the program?
Chef requires a dedicated space to set up for the entire day. We’re flexible to use a classroom, library, gym, staff or hospitality rooms with accessibility to running water. Space must be on the main floor if no elevator is easily available. Portables are not an option.
What equipment is the school required to provide?
7 tables, large garbage bin, oven (if available), access to running water, dedicated program space for day
Does the school require an oven?
School ovens are preferred to be used as there is enough space to bake all recipes at once. However, we recognize that an oven is not always an option and Chefs do have a smaller portable oven available to be used if required.
How many students per session?
30 students per session is the recommended maximum. This number allows each student to fully participate and get the most out of the Chef experience.
How many sessions in a day?
3 or 4 sessions in a day per school.
How long is each session?
Each session for Elementary Schools are 85-90 minutes and 75 minutes for Secondary Schools. Chefs require 10 minutes minimum between sessions.
What is your food allergy policy?
ALL recipes are Nut free and Gelatin free. Each Chef has been trained in food sensitivities, allergies and dietary restrictions. Each recipe has substitutions which accommodate gluten free, egg free, dairy free, vegan and vegetarian. Every Chef uses separate tools for students requiring food accommodations. Chefs will ensure every precaution is taken to avoid any cross contamination. It’s important to note that all baked goods are baked in the same oven. Final consent for student’s participation will belong to the school and the student’s family. Chef à l’École is always willing to speak directly with family or school to address any concerns and create a plan for success.
Why are volunteers required for the program?
Volunteers are essential to the Chef program. Volunteers do not need to speak French. Volunteers are needed to support students completing each task, assisting as required as well as overseeing the baking process while Chefs are presenting the Cultural storytelling portion of the session.
- 4 volunteers are required for gr 1-6
- 2 volunteers are required for gr 7-8
- 0 volunteers are required for gr 9-12
What is the teacher’s role during the program?
A teacher is required to be present at all times during the program. Teachers are responsible for classroom management and discipline.
How does set up and take down work?
Chefs will arrive 1 hour early for set up for the day. Chefs require 30 minutes for take down at the end of the day without interruption. Chefs are responsible for set up and take down, as long as the tables are in the dedicated space.
What is our cancellation policy?
If a school cancels a booking within 30 days of their date, the school will be subjected to a $300 cancellation fee.