Food technology course develops into Adopt a School project

A group of year 8 students reaped multiple benefits when they took a course in food technology at Grafton High School.

In addition to gaining hands-on experience in the methods of mixing, the students got involved in an Adopt a School project. The project, which ran over four weeks, included a tour of the local Baker’s Delight, a bake-off, prizes and certificates, and interesting information about careers in general.

Principal Colin Lang had been keen for students to be involved in an Adopt a School project, but he was concerned that the curriculum for senior students was already tightly packed. Emma Hannan, coordinator for the North Coast Youth Career Connections Local Community Partnership, suggested a project that complemented learning for younger students.

It was decided that the ‘Methods of Mixing’ component of the food technology course would be perfect for a project if a willing baker could be found. Up stepped Ed Piper, a Baker’s Delight franchisee and father of a daughter in year 8.

Before the tour of his bakery, Ed visited the class and talked about the mixing methods used in a commercial setting. An engaging and interesting speaker, Ed also talked about franchises, applying for jobs, further training and career advice in general.

At the bakery, students had a chance to make scones using commercial equipment. According to Emma, the students were amazed and fascinated by the machinery and the quantities of ingredients used by a commercial baker.

The project, including the bake-off, got good coverage in the local newspaper. Other schools in the area are now interested in projects aimed at their year 7 and 8 students.

Emma recommends Adopt a School projects, and says she’s glad the community realises they are suitable for senior and younger students. She says they are fun and a good way for a Local Community Partnership to become better known in their area.