By Jessica Anstice
The Ready Set Work Café Operations program provides practical skills training to people generally disengaged with education – with the aim of developing employability skills and improving literacy and language skills required for employment.
The program is run by Jesuit Community College (part of Jesuit Social Services) and is open to young people not enrolled in mainstream education such as secondary school, VCAL or TAFE. Students are aged between 16 and 25.
Students showed their skills off on a commercial expresso machine with visits to local cafes and coffee roasteries.
Member for Narre Warren North Luke Donnellan visited the students at Narre Warren Bowls Club on Wednesday, 31 October.
Participant Zayne made Mr Donnellan a coffee with the skills he has picked up as part of the program.
Mr Donnellan spoke to the class about his experiences looking for work as a young person, and the importance of working and contributing to society. The participants all really enjoyed his visit and meeting him.
Participant Emily said, “At first I didn’t know what I wanted to do for a job, but this course has made me want to find a job in a café or hospitality.
“It’s also helped me to learn more about resumes and interviews. Once I graduate I’m looking to find part time or casual work in a café – that would be great.”
Upon successful completion of the course young people gain accreditations in several areas, practical skills and knowledge for working in the hospitality industry, improved job readiness and a career pathway to employment or further education and training. The participants graduate from the course next week.
