Maple Ridge teaching chef receives Prime Minister’s Award

A Maple Ridge chef and educator is among 20 teachers from across Canada to receive a 2026 Prime Minister’s Award Certificate of Achievement. The awards recognize teachers and early childhood educators whose dedication, innovation and leadership have made a meaningful difference in the lives of Canadian children and students.

Trevor Randle has taught culinary arts to students in Grades 9 to 12 at Maple Ridge Secondary School since 2005. He said he is the first teaching chef to receive the award, and that the recognition shows how important culinary and food security education has become across the country.

Secondary school teaching kitchens do more than teach students how to cook, Randle said. They provide a consistent space where every student can feel successful and safe, while also being challenged. Randle was nominated by friends and colleagues at Thomas Haney Secondary.

Randle aims to create an immersive, student-centred, energetic, professional and inclusive learning experience. The awards celebrate educators who go beyond expectations to create engaging learning experiences, encourage curiosity and confidence, and make a lasting impact on the children and students they serve.