High Grange Fire Cookery School Ignites ‘Green Outdoor Experience’ Award

High Grange Fire Cookery School, a family-run culinary retreat in the heart of East Devon, has been awarded the ‘Green Outdoor Experience Accreditation’ by the Independent Cookery Schools Association (ICSA) in recognition of its exceptional outdoor cookery teaching and sustainable practices.

Set amidst rolling Devon hills, High Grange offers an immersive experience that blends rustic charm with world-class culinary expertise. Owners Sara and Luke Vandore-Mackay, with over 20 years of experience in fine dining and wine, lead the retreat with passion, supported by a team dedicated to delivering hands-on, transformative cooking experiences.

At the heart of the school is Luke Vandore-Mackay, who brings fire cooking to life with a relaxed yet expert teaching style. Guests of all abilities learn to prepare meats, fish, and vegetables over an array of fire techniques—ceramic Kamado Joe barbecues, and even directly in the ground ‘fire pit’ or ‘earth oven’ cooking, while discovering the science of heat, smoke, and flavour. Every session concludes with a communal feast, from breakfast to a celebratory supper, shared under seasonal canopies or around the retreat’s oak table.

Enhancing the experience Luke is now joined by Chiara Tomansoni, a MasterChef: The Professionals finalist, whose culinary skill and infectious enthusiasm elevate every class. Chiara’s mastery of contemporary techniques, combined with her dedication to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, inspires students to create dishes that celebrate the very best of Devon produce—whether it’s Lyme Bay mackerel, wild venison, salt-baked turbot, or aged British beef.

ICSA accreditation is a mark of excellence, recognising schools that deliver outstanding teaching, hands-on engagement, and rigorous adherence to sustainability. The Green Outdoor Experience Award, a new accolade from ICSA, specifically honours schools that combine top-tier instruction with environmental responsibility, seasonality, and local sourcing—qualities High Grange embodies fully.

James Day, ICSA Director of Operations, praised the school:
“High Grange Fire Cookery School exemplifies the highest standards of outdoor cookery education. Luke and Chiara’s knowledge, passion, and ability to bring out the best in each student, paired with sustainable sourcing and impeccable facilities, make this school a true standout. The combination of hands-on fire cooking and immersive outdoor learning is unmatched.”

High Grange’s achievements extend beyond ICSA recognition, including being named one of the Top 5 Barbecue Schools in the South West by Food Magazine, earning a Gold Award from Devon Food & Drink, and winning Best Training School.

Luke Vandore-Mackay reflected on the award:
“We’re thrilled to receive ICSA’s Green Outdoor Experience Accreditation. It’s a real validation of our team’s hard work, commitment to sustainability, and love for teaching. Sharing our passion for fire cooking with students, and seeing them gain confidence and skills, is what makes High Grange so special.”

High Grange continues to set the standard for outdoor cookery education, blending expert teaching, sustainable sourcing, and unforgettable culinary experiences in one of England’s most beautiful rural landscapes.

For more information on High Grange Fire School and a link to their courses visit here

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