June 29 - Aug 28
Monday - Friday | 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Ultra Small Class
Strict maximum of 8 students for individual coaching.
Vegetarian Menu
Nut-aware facility. All nutrition and choices discussed.
Why Cooking Matters for Teens
Some teens leave home knowing how to cook. Others rely on snacks, takeout, or someone else stepping in.
That gap matters more than most parents expect. Cooking builds independence, confidence, and responsibility in a way few other skills do. COOKSMART helps teens build those habits before they need them.
Pick Their Program
Choose from four unique weekly themes designed for culinary mastery.
The Basics
Make nutritious meals your way. Perfect for building foundational confidence.
Baking Basics
Learn the science of cookies, muffins, biscuits, and yeast doughs.
Global Cuisines
Learn recipes from around the world to share with the family.
Menu for Champions
Designed for active youth. Nutrition for better athletic performance.
Reserve Your Spot
Strict limit of 8 students per class for safety and attention.
Oakville Camp
2489 Lakeshore Rd W
- July 13-17: Cooking Basics
- July 27-31: Baking Basics
- Aug 10-14: Global Cuisine
- Aug 24-28: Champions Menu
Mon-Fri, 1:30 - 4:30 PM
$359+tax
Port Credit Camp
24 Stavebank Rd
- July 6-10: Cooking Basics
- July 20-24: Champions Menu
- Aug 4-7: Baking Basics
- Aug 17-21: Global Cuisine
Mon-Fri, 1:30 - 4:30 PM
$359+tax
Core Skills Your Teen Will Master
Our teenage summer programs focus heavily on the mechanics and science of cooking. They aren't just memorizing recipes - they are learning how to build confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Knife Proficiency
Proper grips, safe slicing, dicing, and mincing techniques for various vegetables and proteins.
Heat Management
Safely operating stovetops and ovens, understanding boiling, simmering, and roasting.
Flavour Balancing
Using herbs, spices, and acids to cook intuitively and adjust recipes without instructions.
Kitchen Protocol
Food safety, sanitation, cross-contamination prevention, and efficient workflow habits.
A Safe Space to Take Risks
Teens learn best when they feel respected. We provide a supervised environment where they safely experiment with real culinary tools.
- Certified Instructors:
Trained in First Aid, CPR, and Safe Food Handling. - Real Tool Safety:
We teach proper, professional knife techniques and heat management.
What Parents Are Saying
"Sent both my kids 10 and 7 here for the week. Each day they came home excited and proud. Also the fact that you don't have to make lunches/snacks for a week? That's like a vacation for Mom."
"I love that they actually learn life skills here instead of just baking treats. My daughter now confidently uses the stove and chops vegetables without me hovering."
"The small class size makes a huge difference. The chef had time to help individually, and he learned more in one week here than in the last two years at home."
Leader-in-Training (LIT)
Grow from helper to leader! Gain hands-on coaching in cooking, safety, and youth mentorship in a fun environment.
- Volunteer Hours: Earn high school credits and real job experience.
- Communication: Learn to guide younger campers with confidence.
- Step Up & Lead: Manage setups and help classes flow smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accommodate food allergies and dietary needs?
Yes. Our teen summer menu is strictly vegetarian, and our kitchen environment is nut-aware. We actively discuss and teach all food choices. Please list any specific allergies on your registration form.
Do teens need prior cooking experience?
Not at all! Our programs are designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to teens who already cook at home. We teach core fundamentals so everyone can participate safely.
Is the teen cooking class hands-on?
Yes, 100% hands-on. Teens are actively chopping, mixing, sautéing, and cooking their own meals from start to finish under instructor guidance.
Will my teen learn knife skills?
Yes. Proper knife handling and kitchen safety are foundational to our teen programs. Instructors closely supervise and guide students through safe techniques.
What should my teen bring or wear?
Safety first! Teens must wear comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and have long hair tied back. Please send them with a water bottle and an apron from home.
What is the instructor to student ratio?
We keep our teen classes very small, with a strict maximum of 8 students per class. This ensures every teen gets personalized instruction and hands-on support.
