Intent
At CANTO Learning we aim to develop our students’ confidence and independence. We intend to enable students to develop appropriate communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, and to have an awareness & understanding of the impact of both good and poor customer service.
Students will develop knowledge & understanding of food hygiene & safety, the importance of keeping work areas clean and tidy and gain good customer service skills. The students will also have the opportunity to handle money, taking payments both in cash and electronically.
Implementation
Initially when students first commence their time in the coffee shop they will take part in an introduction to safety, food hygiene and customer service skills. This can be completed in a way that suits the individual students – e.g., workbooks, online, discussion or a method that the students choose. {This is not a long process as we are aware that the students want to start “working “in the coffee shop}
Once the students have the necessary knowledge, they will begin their hands-on experience. The activities will include: –
- Baking
- Researching recipes
- Preparing drinks
- Serving customers
- Cleaning
- Stock rotating
- Preparing shopping lists
- Keeping shelves full & tidy
- Cleaning the coffee machine
The experience will help to develop their confidence to meet, greet and speak to customers along with serving refreshments both over the counter and via table service. The students will help with serving afternoon teas too.
Impact
The experience is a positive one for the students and with regular feedback the students are able to share where they have improved and what they have enjoyed. Students will gain the confidence to communicate with not just their peers and tutor, but also the general public in a safe environment. Customers regularly comment positively about their experience in the coffee shop which is an excellent form of feedback for the students.
