La Cucina Caldesi, London’s family-run Italian cookery school, offers Italian-themed food and wine courses, as well as children’s activities. Winter 2008 courses include ‘Fresh pasta & sauces’,’30 Minute Italian Menus’, ‘Pizza Making & More!’ Several new courses include ‘Giancarlo cooks’ and ‘Sunday Market Kitchen.’ The Italian Mama’s Cookery Club for Children will teach families to make simple, tasty, nutritious meals in a fun way, giving young students a chance to make fresh pasta or classic ragu and potato gnocchi.

All classes allow plenty of opportunity to taste dishes, and usually end with a glass of wine for adults. Each student leaves class with a Caldesi apron and recipe pack. For details and reservations visit www.caldesi.com or telephone 020 7487 0750. La Cucina Caldesi: 118 Marylebone Lane, London W1.