A year of culinary adventures with Ferring Country Centre
This year, we've had the privilege of working with Ferring Country Centre, a beacon of community spirit and opportunity, to provide our trainees with invaluable work experience. This collaboration has not only enhanced their skills but has also significantly boosted their confidence and employability. Let's dive into what makes Ferring Country Centre a cornerstone of this enriching journey.
Who is Ferring Country Centre?
Established with a vision to create inclusive opportunities, the Centre operates a variety of facilities including a working farm, garden centre, and a popular café. Each of these ventures not only serves the public but also provides a platform for users to develop essential skills in a real-world setting.
Our mission:
"To create positive futures for customers and enable them to play a valued role in society"
This year, several of our trainees have had the fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the kitchen and café areas of Ferring Country Centre. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, they've learned the ropes of food preparation, hygiene standards, customer service, and the fast-paced dynamics of a bustling café environment.
Kitchen Skills: More Than Just Cooking
Working in the kitchen at Ferring Country Centre has been a transformative experience for our trainees. From mastering basic culinary techniques to understanding the importance of food safety, the kitchen has been an excellent training ground. Trainees have learned how to prepare a variety of dishes, cater to different dietary requirements, and manage time effectively to ensure that meals are served promptly. The hands-on experience has not only honed their cooking skills but has also taught them the importance of teamwork and communication in a busy kitchen setting.
“The new partnership between Ferring Country Centre and the Sand Project has brought even more sunshine into our visitor centre. The placements have included positions in our cafe and gift shop and have allow individuals to experience a, at times, fast paced hospitality environment with both support from The SAND Project and Ferring Country Centre. We look forward to continuing the placements throughout the year. ”
Café Culture: Brewing Confidence
In the café, trainees have taken on roles that range from barista duties to customer service. They have learned how to operate coffee machines, prepare beverages, handle cash transactions, and engage with customers in a friendly and professional manner. This experience has been instrumental in building their confidence and interpersonal skills.
SAND Project graduate Jems serving with a smile at Ferring Country Centre
Gratitude and Growth: A Winning Combination
We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have a non-profit charity like Ferring Country Centre within our community. Their commitment to providing meaningful work experience opportunities is truly commendable. By opening their doors to our trainees, they have played a crucial role in their personal and professional development. The skills and experiences gained at Ferring Country Centre are invaluable additions to their CVs, significantly enhancing their prospects for future job applications.
The positive impact on our trainees is evident in their increased confidence, improved skillsets, and enthusiastic outlook toward their future careers. We are incredibly grateful for their support and look forward to continuing this journey together, empowering more trainees to achieve their full potential.
Here's to a future filled with more opportunities, growth, and shared successes!