Cooking is about so much more than preparing a meal. Knowing how to cook nutritious meals, follow safe food practices, and make choices about what we eat is an important part of living a full and independent life.
At Blue Tongue Adventure, our weekly cooking program gives participants the opportunity to build valuable life skills in a fun, supportive, and hands-on environment at Blue Tongue Kitchen.
Every Monday, our BTA crew step into our professional bayside kitchen, learn new recipes, work together, and develop skills that support greater independence both inside and outside the kitchen.
A cooking program designed to build confidence and independence
Our NDIS cooking classes are designed to help participants develop practical skills that they can use every day.
Through our cooking program, participants learn how to:
- Follow recipes and cooking instructions
- Prepare healthy and nutritious meals
- Understand food choices and nutrition
- Practice kitchen hygiene and food safety
- Safely use kitchen equipment
- Build confidence trying new skills
- Work as part of a team
- Develop greater independence at home
Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when someone has never had the opportunity to learn in a supportive environment.
Our program creates a space where participants can learn at their own pace, celebrate their achievements, and gain confidence with every new recipe.
A unique learning experience at Blue Tongue Kitchen
One of the things that makes our cooking program so special is the environment where it takes place.
Participants don’t cook in a traditional classroom setting. They get to experience Blue Tongue Kitchen, our modern bayside commercial kitchen equipped with professional cooking equipment and everything needed to create amazing meals.
The change of environment helps participants feel like they are part of something exciting and meaningful. It creates a real cooking experience where they can learn, explore, and enjoy being in a professional kitchen.
Blue Tongue Kitchen provides a unique opportunity for our BTA crew to develop skills in a space that feels authentic, welcoming, and inspiring.
10-week cooking programs with a new theme every block
Our cooking programs run in 10-week blocks, with each block exploring a different theme.
This gives participants the opportunity to continuously learn new skills, discover new cuisines, and keep building their confidence in the kitchen.
Our current 10-week block has an Around the World theme, where participants explore the food and culture of different countries through cooking.
So far, the group has travelled through:
🌏 Australia – creating a classic Aussie Meat Pie from scratch, complete with a rich savoury filling and golden flaky pastry.
🇮🇹 Italy – learning how to make Homemade Pasta Primavera, including fresh pasta and a colourful, flavour-packed primavera sauce.
🇲🇽 Mexico – building a delicious Nachos Bake, layered with seasoned beef, crunchy corn chips and melted cheese.
There’s still plenty more to come, with participants set to explore:
🇻🇳 Vietnam – Rice Paper Rolls
🇺🇸 United States – Mini Cheeseburgers
🇹🇭 Thailand – Thai Fried Rice
🇮🇳 India – Butter Chicken with Rice
🇧🇷 Brazil – Pão de Queijo (Brazilian Cheese Bread)
🇪🇸 Spain – Spanish Frittata
🇯🇵 Japan – Sushi
…with every session introducing new flavours, cooking techniques and cultural experiences from around the world.
Each week brings a new opportunity to learn, taste, create, and share experiences together.
Meet Chef Claudio: Bringing passion and experience to every class
Leading the cooking program is our amazing Chef and Program Coordinator, Claudio, who brings nearly 10 years of culinary experience to Blue Tongue Kitchen.
Claudio began his culinary career in Brazil before continuing his journey through a wide range of kitchens across Australia, including resorts and remote hospitality environments.
His cooking style is inspired by his Brazilian heritage and Mediterranean influences, focusing on simple, honest flavours that bring people together.
However, what makes Claudio such a valued part of the program is not just his culinary expertise. It is his ability to create a calm, welcoming environment where participants feel comfortable learning, experimenting, and building confidence.
Claudio believes cooking is about much more than recipes. It is about connection, skill development, and creating experiences that help people feel capable and proud of what they can achieve.
From handmade pasta and focaccia to seasonal comfort dishes, Claudio’s cooking celebrates flavour, creativity, and the joy of sharing food together.
Supporting NDIS participants to develop real-life skills
Cooking is a key life skill that supports independence.
While it can be easy to overlook, knowing how to prepare meals, understand nutrition, and safely use kitchen appliances plays an important role in helping people live more independently.
At Blue Tongue Adventure, our goal is to support our crew to live their lives to the fullest.
That means creating opportunities where participants can:
- Learn new skills
- Build confidence
- Try new experiences
- Make choices for themselves
- Become more independent
Our cooking program is a fun and practical way to develop these skills while being surrounded by a supportive community.
How can participants use their NDIS funding for cooking classes?
Blue Tongue Adventure cooking programs may be accessed using NDIS funding under several categories, depending on a participant’s individual plan and goals.
Funding options may include:
Community Access Supports
Innovative Community Participation
09_008_0116_6_3
Centre Capital Cost
04_599_0136_6_1
Core Supports
Group Activities – Standard – Weekday Daytime
04_102_0136_6_1
Centre Capital Cost
04_599_0136_6_1
Funding eligibility depends on each participant’s individual NDIS plan, goals, and available funding.
If you are unsure whether the program is suitable for you, our team can help answer your questions.
Want to join the Blue Tongue Adventure cooking program?
If you’re part of the Blue Tongue Adventure crew and would like to take part in our cooking program, we’d love to have you join us!
If you’re not currently part of Blue Tongue Adventure but would like to become a participant and explore our programs, we’d love to hear from you too.
Speak with your Blue Tongue Adventure Coordinator or contact our team:
📧 hello@bluetongueadventure.com.au
📞 1800 949 249
If you’re interested in joining NDIS cooking classes at Blue Tongue Kitchen but aren’t currently part of the Blue Tongue Adventure crew, you can submit an enquiry through Blue Tongue Kitchen to register your interest. Our team will be happy to discuss your options and help you understand how you can get involved.
Our coordinators are here to answer your questions and support you through every step of the process.
FAQs
Who can join the Blue Tongue Adventure cooking program?
The program is available for members of the Blue Tongue Adventure community who want to build cooking skills, confidence, and independence.
Do I need cooking experience?
Not at all! Our program is designed for all skill levels. Whether you are new to cooking or already enjoy spending time in the kitchen, everyone can learn something new.
What skills will participants learn?
Participants learn practical skills including meal preparation, nutrition, food hygiene, kitchen safety, teamwork, and following recipes, designed to provide a fun and engaging cooking experience.
Where are the cooking classes held?
Cooking classes are held at Blue Tongue Kitchen, our modern bayside kitchen in Thorneside.
How long does each cooking program run?
Each cooking program runs for 10 weeks, with every block featuring a new theme and new recipes to explore.
Can I use my NDIS funding to attend?
Many participants access the program using their NDIS funding. Funding depends on individual plans, goals, and available supports.
How do I join the program?
Speak with your Blue Tongue Adventure Coordinator or email hello@bluetongueadventure.com.au, and our team will help you get started.
