7
On Wednesday 13th of November, Kaplan Manchester prepared a gathering in the school to introduce food from different cultures and to enhance cultural dialogue.
Many students and staff participated in the event which was organized by the social programs manager, Lee Rimmer.
Kaplan Manchester magazine was there and it managed to interview Lee.
Before we began can you give a background about you and your interest?
I started at Kaplan as a teacher in 2012, and moved into the social programme manager’s role in the summer. I qualified from university with a degree in English in 2005 and since then my work history has included sales, construction and teaching, including one year teaching English in South Korea. I love working in an international college environment, as it allows me to meet people from all over the world and it’s always a dynamic and interesting place to work.
My interests include travelling, literature, snowboarding, boxing, hockey, although I’m very busy, so I don’t always get time to indulge myself.
Can you please give an overview about International food tasting?
I think that overall, the event was a great success. It provided a chance for people to mix and talk about the food that they enjoy, and learn more about each other’s culture. I’m really happy with the level of effort people went to, and will definitely repeat the event in the future.
Can you describe the type of food that in event?
The food came from many different places. We had tortilla from Spain, Swiss fondue, a quiche from France, Russian pancakes, Ukrainian salad, arepas from Venezuela, and of course some great British food. This included a stew from Liverpool, also known as ‘scouse’ and some Welsh tiffin and English iced buns!
Why International food tasting?
It encourages people to share their national food and to talk about food, cooking and practicing using vocabulary related to food and cooking process such as ingredients. Also, it is a great chance for students to socialize and to try something new and enjoy food together.
How can this event enhance cultural dialogue?
Food is important in every culture and it’s a good meeting point for everybody.
Why did this event take place this week?
This week, the elementary and lower intermediate classes are studying food, so it's good for them to practice. Also, to try different food!
How do you evaluate students’ participation in the event?
It was difficult for some students to bring food, because they don’t have cooking facilities but people who brought food have done an excellent job.
How many times has this event been organised annually?
This event has been organised twice this year, but maybe next year we will consider doing it more regularly to coincide with the food unit in the Kaplan teaching material.
How would you describe the interaction of students and their feedback?
I think that the students really enjoyed the opportunity to showcase their food, as they are proud of it. All of the feedback I received was positive. Perhaps this is because people are always happy after a good meal!
Abdullah meets Lee at the food tasting event in the student area.
International
Food Day
Report and interview by
Abdullah Mahgram
9