Work skills come in a cup for students

Hands-on experience was the order of the day when Pemberton District High School students visited a winery to learn how to make coffee.

The event was part of a school initiative last Wednesday and Thursday to teach students real world skills they could use in a work place.

Year 7-10 students visited Lost Lake Winery to get specialised instruction from owner Ashley Lewkowski and the winery’s barista.

The initiative was made possible through a Manjimup Shire Council grant.

“It’s scary how good these students are,” Mr Lewkowski said.

“It’s about teaching students service with a smile and how to make a good cup of coffee.”

Mr Lewkowski said students were “incredibly engaged” in the coffee-making.

“We also visited Manjimup Senior High School in September for the short course, they have the required equipment there,” he said.

Year 10 student Darcy Roche said she enjoyed the day and liked making coffee.

“I was surprised about the coffee bean process,” she said.

“It’s been very educational, it’s been great to learn new skills in coffee-making. I can now distinguish what makes a good coffee.”

A total of 24 students were chosen to be part of the initiative after writing about why they wanted to be involved.