Brewing fresh career options

MASTERING the skill of making the perfect coffee has become a priority for a group of Dunedin early school leavers.

Yesterday, the Salvation Army education and employment branch launched a community cafe in the city to offer New Zealand Qualifications Authorityapproved cafe training to youth.

Former King’s High School pupil Wayde Fryer (15), of Dunedin, said he was attracted to the automotive class offered by the service, but the opportunity to gain hospitality skills sweetened the deal.

‘‘Learning how to make coffees and get catering skills is pretty exciting. I like to try new things.’’

Salvation Army education and employment tutor Leanne Pryde said the cafe training would accompany lessons in computing, foundation studies and tourism.

About 12 students aged 1619 would complete the course this year.

‘‘They are motivated students looking at finishing up their study and getting into the work force.’’

A dislike of secondary education, desire to gain skills not offered at school and challenging personal circumstances were among the reasons students chose to enrol in the course, Ms Pryde said.

Based in a caravan, the cafe would be open to the public at the service’s King Edward St premises.

Cafe manager Jasmine Thorley said students would be assessed on everything from their coffee making skills to their use of Maori greetings.

The course would start on Monday.

margot.taylor@odt.co.nz

PHOTO: GREGOR RICHARDSON Eager to learn . . . Salvation Army alternative education student Wayde Fryer (15) serves coffee, watched by education manager Rhondda Deuchar and cafe assistant Nick Claver at the launch of the service’s training caravan cafe in Dunedin yesterday.