Cardiff Council offers employment opportunities to young people with additional needs
Since launching in May, four pupils aged 16-18 from the Specialist Resource Bases at Cantonian and Llanishen High Schools have gained the Level 2 Food Safety Qualification.
They will now gain access to a ‘unique opportunity’, and transition into paid employment through the Food & Fun initiative, Cardiff's school holiday enrichment programme, which provides children with health and well-being provision during the school holidays.
Cardiff Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "The scheme relies on organisations to come forward to support and host placements, and in turn presents employers with an opportunity to expand the diversity of their own workforce, facilitating community links, cohesiveness and contributing to improving the outcomes of our communities city-wide.
“They are invaluable in helping to support more young people to become ambitious, capable and prepared to work whilst championing confident individuals ready to lead fulfilling lives as valued members of our communities."
At the end of the summer holidays, the young people will be supported in applying for vacant positions within the schools catering service and beyond.
Judith Gregory, LACA vice chair, added: “Delighted that partnership working between Cardiff School Meals and Cardiff Commitment is enabling children and young people to develop catering skills whilst also supporting our service.”