At Jack Hunt School, we’re always striving to go the extra mile for our students—and this year’s Sixth Form leavers are no exception. As part of a now well-established tradition, our Year 13 students will be receiving a thoughtful and practical send-off to support them as they move on to university, work, or a gap year.

This summer, each leaver will receive a specially designed Class of 2025 Fair Trade tote bag filled with a selection of useful and comforting items. From reusable water bottles and cooking utensils to mindfulness colouring sheets, stationery, laptop stickers, and stress balls—every item has been chosen with care to offer both practical use and emotional support. Students will also receive personalised photos, a year group picture, and a few special keepsakes to remember their time at Jack Hunt.

But the highlight of this unique leaving tribute is a 64-page Recipe and Wellbeing Book—a rich resource that brings together everything from nutritious, budget-friendly recipes to tips for maintaining mental and physical health. With messages from the Headteacher and Sixth Form team, wellbeing activities, support helpline details, and 37 delicious recipes, it’s a true reflection of the caring and community-focused ethos of the school.

What makes the cookbook even more special is its global flavour. Featuring recipes contributed by staff, students, and international partner schools in India and Uganda, it celebrates the diverse heritage and cultural connections of our school community. Whether it’s butter chicken, vegan chickpea stew, or classic roast dinner, there’s something for everyone.

The project is led by Ms Sidra Hussain, Internationalism Coordinator, who has been at the heart of the school’s Year 13 Wellbeing Project for the past five years. Speaking about the initiative, she said:

“We’re committed to promoting holistic wellbeing and cultural diversity. Our recipe book offers affordable, easy-to-make meals alongside mindfulness resources to support our students' health as they transition into adult life. The response has been fantastic—and thanks to a generous £500 grant from Tesco, we’re proud to continue offering the wellbeing goody bags again this year.”

The recipes themselves were the result of a school-wide competition, giving students the chance to explore and express their culinary creativity. It’s this collaborative spirit that continues in the after-school cooking clubs led by Ms Hussain and Ms Diane Ray, a former professional chef. These clubs offer students more than just cooking skills—they build confidence, independence and team spirit.

Headteacher Mr Jon Hebblethwaite shared his thoughts on the initiative:

“We are incredibly proud of our Sixth Form students. Leaving school can be daunting, but this project offers them something practical, personal and supportive as they begin their next chapter. It’s a small way to show how much we care.”

Students will receive their tote bags and books at their leavers’ assembly—a fitting end to their journey at Jack Hunt and a heartfelt start to whatever comes next.