Students take over popular city cafe

STUDENTS from the Mount Gambier High School Flexible Industry Pathways classes embarked on an ambitious real-world learning project, teaming up with Metro Bakery and Café to deliver a professional and highly successful event – Pizza and Pasta Night.

This initiative, part of their Integrated Learning Stage 1 SACE subject, gave more than 40 students the opportunity to showcase their skills in a vibrant, professional environment.

From concept to delivery, the students were involved in every stage of the project, culminating in a sold-out evening that wowed guests with delicious food and outstanding service.

The journey began with students designing a professional logo for the event, which was approved by both the school and Metro.

This branding became a cornerstone of the event’s promotional efforts, appearing on advertising posters, tickets, and student uniforms—demonstrating practical skills in marketing and branding.

To prepare for the evening, students visited Metro for a tasting session and workshop led by owner Toni Vorenas.

The workshop provided hands-on insights into the key roles required to run a successful hospitality event, equipping students with industry-specific knowledge and practical skills.

On the night, students took on various professional roles, including:

• Chefs and pizza makers, creating a mouth-watering array of dishes.

• Baristas, crafting quality coffee for attendees.

• Service staff and floor managers, ensuring smooth operations.

• Mocktail specialists, preparing creative non-alcoholic drinks.

Beyond their roles on the night, students were also responsible for planning the menu, managing ticket sales, and coordinating event logistics.

Their hard work and organisation paid off, with more than 40 tickets sold and the students actively contributing to the event’s success.

Guests were treated to a menu featuring freshly made pizzas, pasta dishes, mocktails and decadent desserts such as tiramisu and cannoli siciliani.

The students’ teamwork, dedication, and creativity were evident throughout the evening, earning them praise from all who attended.

Mount Gambier High School vocational pathways coordinator Eluisa Crispino said this collaboration provided students with an immersive experience in the hospitality industry, helping them build practical skills and confidence while giving them a real sense of achievement.

“A special thank you goes to the team at Metro — Toni, Alex, Anil, Steve, and Mark—for their invaluable support and guidance, which helped make the event an unforgettable success,” Ms Crispino said.

“The Pizza and Pasta Night is a shining example of the benefits of real-world learning, inspiring the next generation of professionals with hands-on experience and industry exposure. It stands as a proud highlight of the Flexible Industry Pathways program here at Mount Gambier High School.”