VCE VM & VET
RECIPES AND STORIES: A COMMUNITY COOKBOOK PROJECT
Our VCE VM students are currently partnering with residents from The Vines Retirement Village to create Recipes and Stories: A Community Cookbook.
Throughout the term, residents will share treasured recipes alongside the special memories, family traditions and life stories connected to them. Working collaboratively, students will test each recipe in the College's kitchen, design and produce the cookbook, and organise a special morning tea book launch where participating residents will receive their own copies.
Students are working across five project teams: Editorial, Recipe Testing, Design and Production, Stakeholder Communications, and Launch and Evaluation. Together, they will manage every stage of the project, from initial planning and community engagement through to production, launch and evaluation.
The project responds to two important community issues: social isolation among older Australians and the gradual loss of valuable intergenerational food knowledge. It provides a wonderful opportunity for students and residents to build meaningful connections while preserving recipes, memories and traditions that might otherwise be lost.
Along the way, students will develop practical skills in communication, teamwork, project management, food preparation, design and event coordination. Most importantly, they will create a meaningful and lasting resource for our local community – one filled with much more than recipes.
VET ACTIVE VOLUNTEERING PROGRAM
Our VET Active Volunteering students have had a fantastic year giving back to the community while developing valuable skills for their future. Through a range of hands-on experiences, students have built confidence, strengthened their teamwork and communication skills, and gained a greater understanding of the importance of community involvement.
Throughout the year, students have volunteered with several local organisations, including Benetook Farm, River Repair Bus, and the Gol Gol Immersion Centre. They have also supported school-based events and initiatives such as Feast Day, helping to create a positive and connected school community.
BENETOOK FARM
One of the highlights of the program has been through our partnership with Benetook Farm. Students have embraced every opportunity to get involved and support participants and staff in a variety of meaningful activities.
Their work has included collecting, cleaning and sorting eggs, gardening and pruning, assisting with the maze rebuild, and restoring furniture. Students have also participated in yoga and craft sessions and assisted in the recreational activities such as basketball, bingo and pool.
These experiences have not only helped students develop practical skills but have also taught them the value of patience, empathy, teamwork and building relationships with others.
Ms Hayley Wilson
Vocational Pathways Coordinator
