OzHarvest’s FEAST Program Teaches Kids About Food Waste

Across Australia, students are learning about the issue of food waste and its environmental impact, positive food choices and easy classroom cooking through OzHarvest’s FEAST program. FEAST, which stands for Food Education and Sustainability Training, is a 10-week, teacher-led initiative for Primary School students in Years 5–6 and High School students in Years 7–8. The program helps kids create healthy meals while understanding the broader impact of food choices on people and the planet.

What is FEAST?

FEAST is a flexible, project-based program that can be adapted to suit any school. It uses a hands-on, practical approach to education, encouraging kids to explore food, health, and sustainability in a fun and meaningful way. Through cooking and classroom activities, students gain essential life skills, learning not just what to eat, but how to make smarter, more sustainable choices.

“FEAST provides teachers with the resources to teach their students important life skills in preparing healthy and delicious food and practical ways to fight food waste,” explains Amelia Berner, FEAST Program Manager.

OzHarvest supports participating schools with a full suite of free teaching materials. This includes online teacher training, detailed lesson plans, student worksheets, videos, recipe books, a practical cooking guide, and ongoing support. Eligible schools also receive free classroom kitchen kits with enough equipment for 30 students, including electric frying pans, aprons, and food vouchers.

Why FEAST Matters

Australia faces a serious food problem: some people don’t have enough to eat, while others waste far too much. Every day, one in five children goes to school or bed hungry. At the same time, one in four Australian children is overweight or obese. Poor nutrition in childhood can lead to lasting health and academic issues.

By teaching kids, the importance of positive food choices and food sustainability, FEAST aims to address both hunger and food waste. Since a third of all food waste happens in the home, involving children in the solution is essential. FEAST empowers them to become changemakers in their own kitchens and communities.

FEAST’s Success and Impact

Since launching in 2019, FEAST has reached over 150,000 students and has been widely embraced by schools across the country. The program has earned several awards, including the Banksia Sustainability Award, for its innovative and practical approach to sustainability education.

OzHarvest Founder and CEO, Ronni Kahn AO, says the response has been incredibly positive. “It’s so rewarding to see the ripple effect within the whole community as children share their new knowledge with family and friends. Our aim is to get FEAST into all Australian schools.”

By educating young people about food waste, nutrition, and sustainability, the FEAST program is helping to build a healthier and more mindful generation—one delicious recipe at a time. Don’t let this opportunity go to waste! Register your school’s interest in today!