From pantry to plate – Western Sydney University launches tasty new classes for students

Western Sydney University has this week launched small-group cooking classes on campus, designed to help students build confidence in preparing simple, affordable meals using everyday pantry staples.

The initiative complements the University’s Western Pantry offering which provides students with free pantry staples and fresh produce. Since its launch in 2024, the Western Pantry has had more than 11,000 visits.

Student Community Program Coordinator Ms Miranda Zhang said that while the Western Pantry gives students access to food items, it’s equally important that students know how to turn the ingredients into nutritious meals.

“We realised it wasn’t just about giving students access to food, it was equally important to help them feel confident cooking it,” said Ms Zhang.

“We offer a wide variety of food at the pantry, such as silverbeet, beetroot, fennel, oats, beans and lentils, so in these hands-on classes, students can learn how to make the most of those ingredients.

“Using just two to three pantry staples in each class, students will learn how to create simple, budget-friendly meals.”

For the pilot session, students learnt how to cook a bean and lentil coconut curry with rice, paired with a cucumber and red onion pickle.

These new cooking classes aim to offer more than just a meal – they’re creating a space for students to learn, connect, and feel supported on their study journey.

“We know our students are busy with their studies and other commitments such as work, so these skills will help make this everyday task a little easier, while also having the opportunity to connect with peers.”

The program is being co‑designed and facilitated with community partner and chef, Lorna Lee, who is piloting a broader initiative exploring how cooking can be a pathway to greater food security, confidence, and community connection.

The cooking classes complement the University’s existing food support programs which saw more than 12,000 community dinners provided in 2025.

“Community dinners are a nice way for our students to connect. They come together, share stories and enjoy meeting new people while enjoying a home-cooked meal at no cost,” added Ms Zhang.

“We expect to provide another 12,000 dinners and host more than 10,000 pantry visits this year.”

ENDS.

12 March 2026
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
Lauren Coskerie, Senior Media and PR Advisor