ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

This term we are extremely excited to introduce the Hands-on Learning (HoL) Café program to Echuca East. Hands on Learning is a practical school program that builds wellbeing, engagement, and attendance by creating opportunities for students to discover their talents and experience success through significant and authentic hands-on projects.

Students will work together on practical projects within a café setting such as cooking and catering as well as gardening, to foster teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills. The model creates a place to belong on school grounds but also outside the classroom where students build relationships, learn through real life projects, and develop strategies to shift attitudes and behaviours that can be barriers to learning in the classroom. 

Through this practical experience, we aim to teach small business principles and develop a sense of confidence in our students about what they can do and achieve. 

By participating in Hands on Learning, refining menus, cooking and dealing with customers we will provide links to the real world and develop the life skills that will help our students as they grow into young adults. 

The HoL Café program will run every Thursday and we hope to soon have our own baked goods and produce available through the canteen. So far, we have had two Hands on Learning Sessions and the students involved have proven that they are right up to it in the kitchen. We look forward to sharing all of the great things that are happening in HoL throughout the year.