Global Grub: A Summer of Food, Fun, and Friendship in Langley

by [email protected] | Sep 3, 2025 | Cohesion, Creativity, Diversity, Food, Participation, Slough, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities SEND, Youth Activities, Youth Work

Global Grub returned for another magical summer – and what a summer it turned out to be. At its heart, Global Grub is about bringing young people together through the joy of food, while also ensuring that those who access free school meals continue to receive nutritious meals throughout the holidays. Delivered as part of Slough Borough Council’s HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programme, it combines creativity in the kitchen with opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate community.

This year’s programme was a resounding success. Over the course of the summer, Global Grub saw an incredible 582 attendances from 103 young people, who together took part in more than 100 hours of inspiring activities. Along the way, they mastered 12 delicious dishes, went on four unforgettable trips, and created memories that will last far beyond the summer itself.

Paddle-boarding on the Jubilee River

The group reflected the very best of Slough’s rich diversity. Young people came from 32 different schools and represented 16 ethnic backgrounds, while the programme also supported 23 young carers and welcomed eight referrals from statutory agencies, including Slough Children First. This blend of participants made Global Grub a unique space where difference was celebrated, friendships were formed, and community spirit flourished.

Parents and carers were quick to praise the programme, rating it 4.71 out of 5, while the young people themselves gave it an even higher rating of 4.8 out of 5. These scores reflect not only the quality of the food and trips on offer, but also the sense of belonging, confidence, and joy that Global Grub fostered.

More than just a holiday programme, Global Grub was a celebration of community, opportunity, and the power of young people coming together. By sharing meals, trying new things, and stepping outside of their comfort zones, participants built skills and connections that will last well into the future.

Example Recipes

Chicken Curry

This quick curry is based on the famous Madras.

Ingredients per person

• 300g chicken (bite-sized pieces)

• 1 tsp curry powder (flat spoon)

• ½ tsp cumin

• 1 tsp garlic & ginger paste

• ½ tsp all-purpose seasoning

• Pinch of black pepper

• ½ tsp turmeric

• ¼ stock cube (if you’ve got one)

• 1–2 onions (chopped)

• 1 tbsp water

• ⅓ can chopped tomatoes

• Handful of frozen veg (optional)

• ½ tsp garam masala

How to cook it

1. Marinate vibes
   Mix chicken with curry powder, cumin, garlic & ginger paste, all-purpose, pepper, turmeric (and stock cube if using).
2. Onion time
   Fry chopped onions until soft & see-through.
3. Sizzle
   Add a splash of water + chicken. Cook till chicken is white inside and juices run clear. Break up big bits.
4. Tomato drop
   Stir in tomatoes + frozen veg if you fancy.
5. Final touch
   Sprinkle in garam masala. Give it a good stir.
6. Serve
   Grab a fork, pile it on rice/naan, and enjoy. 🍚🥖