MILWAUKEE – In the age of fast food and fast food, some students choose to take a crash course in the kitchen.

Who knew flipping pancakes could create so much joy? These fifth graders were told to “take part in the transformation,” and they did.

SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines and breaking news emails from FOX6 News

Tarrell Harvey is just one of the Golda Meir students who enjoyed the Youth Chef Academy course. Children learn the intricacies of the kitchen, from measuring to safe knife skills.

“I’ve been excited about doing this forever,” Harvey said. “It smells so good. I can’t wait to eat it.”

Every Tuesday, students spend more than an hour in this classroom, which has been converted into a kitchen. Tuesday’s menu included pancakes with banana compote.

“They may have more ownership over the food,” said Bria Thomas of the Milwaukee-based nonprofit FoodRight.

Students like Isley take turns preparing the meal.

“It’s kind of like a sweet, buttery smell,” Isley said. “I tell (my parents) everything I do.”

The classroom portion of the course allows children to learn about nutrition.

FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android.

“My goal is for them to understand that nutritious foods can be delicious and easy to make at home,” Thomas said.

The meal took a few minutes to prepare and the kids ate it in seconds.

“We’re learning about whole grain foods, plants, but also vegetarian foods that don’t include meat,” Harvey said. “I think I’ll be really good at cooking when I grow up. I cook a lot of meals for my family members.”

They buy the necessary materials to live healthier and think about their future.