Project 'Something Tasty' at Garden Center Coppelmans

Since this school year, all third-year mavo students with the theoretical curriculum have the subject Mavo In Practice. We find it important that our students learn not only from books, but also by doing. In this subject they work on assignments from real companies or organizations and discover their talents in practice.

For the past few weeks, the project "Something Delicious" has been the focus of attention. After several lessons in which they explored their target audience, designed presentation materials and prepared recipes, Thursday, Nov. 6, it was time for the hands-on day. In the morning, students worked in groups to bake and decorate Christmas-themed cookies. In the process they learned to plan, cooperate and work hygienically. After baking, the groups were assigned a spot in the restaurant of garden center Coppelmans. There they were allowed to decorate their own 'stall'. They creatively used decorative materials from the store to present their products attractively.

Most groups divided the tasks well and helped each other when necessary. While presenting, they showed enthusiasm and hospitality. They talked to customers, explained what they had made and invited people to taste. Sometimes that was quite a challenge. For example, one group was given a spot where no cash register was open and thus few visitors came by. But that didn't stop them: they decided to go into the store themselves to offer their cookies to shoppers. That shows entrepreneurship and guts. Exactly what Mavo In Practice is all about.

Teacher Marc Mantz looks back with satisfaction, "It was a successful day full of commitment, cooperation and growth from our students. The students not only learned something about baking and presentation, but also about customer-oriented work and taking responsibility."