Retro Recipes: Free Adult Cooking Course

Rediscover Classic Favourites and Build Your Kitchen Confidence

Join us for Retro Recipes, six adult cooking sessions at the Dorothy Parkes Centre.

Working alongside our partners at Food for Thought CIC, you'll learn how to recreate much-loved classic dishes using simple techniques, everyday ingredients and practical cooking skills.

Whether you're looking to improve your confidence in the kitchen, save money on family meals, or simply enjoy cooking with others, this welcoming course is designed to make cooking achievable, enjoyable and stress-free.

What You'll Learn

Throughout the course, participants will:

• Recreate traditional family favourites from scratch
• Learn practical cooking techniques and kitchen skills
• Build confidence in meal preparation
• Discover ways to save money through home cooking
• Enjoy a relaxed and supportive learning environment

No previous cooking experience is required.

Session Details

Weekly from Friday 4th September 2026

2:00pm to 4:00pm

The Dorothy Parkes Centre Church Road Smethwick B67 6EH

Participants can book individual sessions or attend the full six-week course.

Weekly Menu

Week 1 (4 September)

Cottage Pie

Week 2 (11 September)

Toad in the Hole

Week 3 (18 September)

Chicken Chasseur

Week 4 (25 September)

Corned Beef Hash

Week 5 (2 October)

Fish Pie

Week 6 (9 October)

Black Forest Gateau

Who Can Attend?

This course is open to adults of all abilities, whether you're a complete beginner or someone looking to refresh your cooking skills.

The sessions are designed to be friendly, informal and supportive, helping participants gain confidence at their own pace.

Booking Information

The classes are free to attend.

Please register your interest in the dates you would like to attend below, and a member of the team will contact you to confirm your place in due course.

In Partnership With

This course is delivered in partnership with Food for Thought CIC, supporting people to develop practical cooking skills, improve confidence and enjoy healthier, home-cooked meals.

We look forward to welcoming you to the kitchen and taking a trip down memory lane with some classic retro recipes!