Portland Bay School secured funds from United Way Glenelg to purchase a new barista machine that is providing students with the opportunity to learn the skills and employment.<\/p>\n
The school, building on their barista program from previous years, the machine replaces an older machine that was becoming problematic.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe program, offered to the senior students, provides them with valuable skills that they can use in the future,\u201d school principal Steve Crossley said. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe students are required to operate the machine, make coffee, and handle money. <\/p>\n
Students also practice their social skills as they interact with customers and work in a team.\u201d<\/p>\n
Those customers are the staff at Portland Bay School who are offered the opportunity to buy freshly brewed coffee through the establishment of a Coffee Club. <\/p>\n
Two students who have undertaken professional training through a credited barista course have secured work in local cafes. Twelvefold Portland and The Art of Tea have employed the two young people. <\/p>\n
\u201cTheir achievement in securing work stands as a testament to the opportunities the barista program has provided,\u201d United Way Glenelg executive officer Nicole Carr said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is fostering a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. It also helps to break down stereotypes and discrimination by showcasing the capabilities and contributions of students with disabilities.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Crossley expressed his gratitude to local cafes and United Way Glenelg\u2019s support in enhancing students\u2019 employment skills.<\/p>\n
Funding for the machine comes from United Way Glenelg Community Fund.<\/p>\n
For more information on how you can get support for your project contact United Way Glenelg at mail@unitedwayglenelg.com.au or phone 0410 513 305.<\/p>\n