THE ‘Sea It Cook It’ initiative, designed to teach a new generation how easy it is to prepare and cook Cornish seafood, came to Coads Green Primary School.

The initiative is run by Brilliant Fish, a project based in Liskeard and co-ordinated by Felicity Sylvester — who has been involved in fishing for most of her life.

So far the scheme has involved 167 children from five local schools, along with their families.

Coads Green Primary children were the latest to learn and take part in the scheme with Brilliant Fish.

Years 5 and 6 followed up their day by visiting the harbourside and Pengelly’s fishmongers in Looe. There, they learned about local catches and sustainable fishing methods.

The 20 pupils then took part in a hands-on cookery session held in their school hall.

As part of the cookery session they learned how to make smoked mackerel pate and fish pie made with sustainable species provided by Pengelly’s — red gurnard, hake and smoked whiting.

The students also had the opportunity to get involved in preparing the dishes, followed by a tasting with parents at the end of the afternoon.

Felicity said: “It is so important to educate the younger generation about Cornish fishing and to encourage them to eat different species; not only to help ensure a market for local sustainable fisheries but also as part of a healthy eating school curriculum and giving the children the opportunity to learn some life skills.

“During some of the sessions we have had three generations of the same family taking part and sharing old and new knowledge, which has been a fascinating exercise for everyone involved.”

Any primary schools in South East Cornwall interested in running Brilliant Fish cookery sessions or visits to Looe Harbour in 2016 can contact Felicity at www.brilliantfisheducation.co.uk