The program teaches students with diverse learning needs the skills they need to work in the food service industry. It is designed to fill the gaps of businesses looking for great employees to fill entry-level positions.
The program’s students spend 15 weeks completing employability coursework and certifications, including WHMIS and FoodSafe. They then move into the NIC teaching kitchen to complete six weeks with Chef Kathy Ngo-Gorst, before beginning a month-long practicum where they hone their skills in local kitchens and eateries.The program teaches students with diverse learning needs the skills they need to work in the food service industry. It is designed to fill the gaps of businesses looking for great employees to fill entry-level positions.
“The support from local businesses is amazing and mutually beneficial,” said Kathy O’Donnell, chair of the Department of Accessible Learning Programs.
According to local Executive Chef, Daniel Dycke, from SoCal Restaurant the restaurant industry has a real need for trained and invested entry level staff.
“I’ve seen first hand how diversity can create a strong team,” said Dycke. “It’s been a rewarding experience to work with the students in the Kitchen Assistant program and I look forward to doing so again.”
A work study assistant from NIC works with both employers and students to troubleshoot or suggest accommodations that can make the placement even more successful. The accommodations support employers to create an inclusive workplace, and can be as simple as implementing a checklist or pictorial instructions.
Several graduating students have been hired following their practicums. Each student has gained confidence, both in the workplace and their daily lives, said O’Donnell.
“NIC’s Accessible Learning programs prepare students for work in the food service industry and there’s also an Employment Transitions Program that places students in work experience practicums in a wide range of industries,” she said.
NIC thanks all the hosting employers from last year: Thrifty Foods, Real Canadian Superstore, Grey Dog Diner, Cedar St. Eats, Fifty Parallel Tap and Grill, White Spot Restaurants, Ricky’s Restaurants, Beachwood Café, local seniors’ centres and New Horizons Retirement Home. Local business interested in exploring how they can support and benefit from a diverse workforce can contact Talia Beltgens at Talia.Beltgens@nic.bc.ca.
Applications are open now. Students interested in participating in the program can contact Kathy O’Donnell at kathy.odonnell@nic.bc.ca or 250-923-9774.
Learn more about the Employment Transition Kitchen Assistant Program by visiting www.nic.bc.ca/accessible-learning.
