Vocational Major

As part of a structured program with activities designed to support achievement in personal development and work-related skills, our Yr 11 and 12 VCE Vocational Major students are participating in community-based experiences.  

This has seen them visit Arcare in Gisborne to spend time with the residents, the New Gisborne Vintage Machinery Association and participate in cooking sessions kindly supported by Macedon Ranges Health.  Thank you to all the local organisations for making these enriching experiences possible.

Our Year 11 and Year 12 VM students recently enjoyed two unforgettable days in the kitchen, hosted by Adriana Tavares Green and our wonderful Food Technician, Wendy Evans.

Year 11 students took on the exciting challenge of creating a replica McDonald’s Big Mac, complete with chips and the iconic Big Mac sauce. Before stepping into the kitchen, students completed their Food Handlers Certificate, building important knowledge around food safety and hygiene practices. Once cooking began, students were challenged not only on flavour but also on presentation, with their final dishes judged by staff across the school.

The kitchen was buzzing with excitement as students explored how popular fast foods can be recreated as healthier homemade alternatives, while also learning about ingredients, nutrition, and the importance of understanding what goes into the foods we eat. After all, what could be more exciting than cooking burgers at school, let alone creating replica Big Macs! 🍔🍟

Year 12 students were then launched into the “Great Gissy Bake Off” challenge. Armed with a basic sponge recipe and four hours on the clock, teams were tasked with transforming their cakes into iconic Gisborne landmarks. The level of competition quickly rose as students secretly planned and constructed their creations, with even Wendy and Adriana joining the fun by creating the iconic Gisborne Water Fountain.

The creativity on display was incredible. Students designed cakes inspired by local landmarks including the aquatic centre, cemetery, oval, creek, botanical gardens, school logo, fairy shop, and of course even more burgers! The attention to detail was outstanding, with students carefully considering not only the appearance of their cakes but also the flavours and textures inside.

The cakes were judged by staff members, including Acting Principal Suzie, who enthusiastically sampled every single creation. A huge congratulations goes to the team behind the cemetery cake, whose exceptional attention to detail impressed everyone.

Thank you to all of our VM students for two fantastic days filled with teamwork, creativity, laughter, and plenty of delicious food!