Transition year students are being invited to participate next September in a pilot scheme aimed at increasing their knowledge and appreciation of the Irish artisan food industry. The "Future is Food" programme is being launched today at the Taste Council of Ireland Summer School in Shanagarry, Cork. Secondary schools already signed up to take part include Coláiste Chiaráin, Croom; Ursuline Secondary School, Thurles; Abbey Secondary School, Tipperary; Avondale Community College, Rathdrum, and St Laurence College and Alexandra College in Dublin. Schools wishing to learn more about the module can find information at tastecouncilofireland.com.

Keynote speakers at today's Summer School, chaired by John Bowman, include food writer and restaurateur Stephanie Alexander, who chairs a foundation that supports the establishment of kitchen gardens in schools in Australia, and Alice Waters of Chez Panisse restaurant in California, founder of the Edible School Yard Programme in the US, who will participate by video link.