Our project entitled The Culinary Skills –  A Digital Toolkit for Enhancing Vocational Education in Gastronomy, having the project nr. 2023-2-RO01-KA210-VET-000181783 got financed by the Romanian National Agency. It is a KA210-VET project, a Small-scale partnerships in vocational education and training which involves 4 partners: VET Center Romania, as applicant, Zespol Szkol Przemyslu Spozywczego (PL), Kecskeméti Szakképzési Centrum (HU) and Vegyészeti-élelmiszeripari Középiskola Csóka (SRB) as partners. 

The project involved a Kick-off meeting which was held in Sfantu Gheorghe, Romania between 18-22 March. This five-day event marked the commencement of a project focused on enhancing gastronomy education through innovative curriculum mapping and digital toolkit development.

Day 1: Welcome and Setting the Stage

The event began with a warm welcome meeting, setting a collaborative tone for the days ahead. Participants from each partner country—six from Romania, Poland, Hungary, and Serbia—gathered to introduce themselves and share their aspirations for the project. This meeting involved representatives of the institutions, teachers and experts in the field of gastronomy. 

Day 2: Importance of Curriculum Mapping

The second day kicked off with a crucial presentation on the importance of curriculum mapping in gastronomy education. This session highlighted the need for a structured approach to curriculum development to ensure that educational programs remain relevant and effective. An overview of existing culinary curricula in the partner countries was provided, setting the stage for a deeper dive into the challenges and opportunities in gastronomy education.

A vibrant group discussion followed, addressing resource constraints, diverse skill levels, and changing culinary trends. Participants explored how the proposed digital toolkit could support these objectives, emphasizing the need for adaptability and innovation in teaching methods.

Day 3: Industry Insights, Curriculum Development, and Local Gastronomy

Day three was a highlight of the event, featuring a guest lecture from a local culinary expert who shared invaluable insights into local gastronomy. In addition to the intellectual activities, participants were treated to an immersive experience of local gastronomy. They had the opportunity to savor traditional dishes, learning firsthand about the rich culinary heritage of the region. The combination of professional insights and cultural experiences made for a well-rounded and productive day, fostering a deeper connection between the participants and the culinary context of their work.

Day 4: Project Planning, Roles, and Responsibilities

Day four was dedicated to discussions on project roles, responsibilities, and planning for project objectives and activities. This session aimed to ensure that all partners had a clear understanding of the project and their specific contributions.

The day began with a detailed presentation outlining the project’s goals, timelines, and expected outcomes. Each partner organization then presented their respective roles, detailing how they would contribute to the various aspects of the project, from needs assessment and curriculum review to toolkit development and implementation.

Following the presentations, participants engaged in collaborative planning sessions. These discussions were essential for aligning on the project’s objectives and ensuring that all activities were strategically planned to meet these goals. Key topics included:

• Defining Specific Roles and Responsibilities: Clarifying each partner’s tasks and deliverables, ensuring accountability and effective collaboration.
• Timeline and Milestones: Establishing a clear timeline for project activities, with specific milestones to track progress.
• Communication Strategies: Developing a communication plan to facilitate regular updates, feedback, and coordination among partners.

Day 5: Departure and Reflections

The final day of the event, March 21, 2024, marked the departure of the participants from Sfantu Gheorghe. Although the official activities had concluded, this day provided a valuable opportunity for reflections and informal discussions.

As participants prepared to travel back to their respective countries, they shared their thoughts and feedback on the kickoff meeting. Many expressed gratitude for the productive sessions, the rich cultural experiences, and the collaborative spirit that characterized the event.

This successful kickoff meeting not only initiated the project but also established a network of committed professionals dedicated to enhancing culinary education across the partner countries. The shared experiences in Sfantu Gheorghe ensured that each participant left with a deeper understanding of the project’s vision and their pivotal role in its success.