The Lakes College's Culinary Club (TLCCC) has been shortlisted as an Excellence Awardee for the 2023 Australian Education Awards - Best Co-Curricular Program. This recognition highlights TLCCC's outstanding achievements and transformative work in education.
The Australian Education Awards, an annual event, showcases top-performing schools, principals, department heads, and teachers who have made a profound difference in the lives of young people across Australia. TLCCC has been recognized as Best Co-Curricular Program, acknowledging its growth, involvement in college events, and catering services for the local community.
“From preparing complex six-course degustation dinners to catering for college events with over 500 guests, Culinary Club offers students practical cooking and food preparation skills.”
TLCCC allows students aged 11 to 18 to learn the importance of community service, develop real-world capacities, and cultivate a professional work ethic. The program engages students with the broader community and creates a sense of purpose and belonging for young people.
From preparing complex six-course degustation dinners to catering for college events with over 500 guests, Culinary Club offers students practical cooking and food preparation skills. Students learn the art of knife handling and various cooking techniques and gain valuable everyday skills. The program is highly regarded by participants, with students like Chloe and Emily expressing their enjoyment and appreciation for TLCCC's fun and educational approach.
Chef Joel, the Coordinator and Creator of TLCCC, emphasized the program's impact on college events and students' personal growth. He believes that Culinary Club nourishes students' hearts while allowing college events to showcase their hearts.
TLCCC remains committed to utilizing local ingredients and exploring new food adventures. The program's growth includes vocational goals such as barista training and Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate courses to support community events. Moreover, the program's older and experienced members play a crucial role in training, managing, and supervising new students, fostering a sense of leadership and shared responsibility.
Nicole Gregory, the Principal of The Lakes College, expresses her excitement about TLCCC's recognition and contribution to the college's TLC Beyond program. She praises Head Chef Joel McCulla for bridging the areas of science, art, and food technology through the Culinary Club program. Gregory recognizes that TLCCC enhances students' understanding of food and its service and instils discipline and shared responsibility within the team.
TLCCC's commitment to service, community engagement, and student growth has earned them well-deserved acclaim. The winners of the Australian Education Awards will be announced at the Gala Event on Friday, August 11, 2023. For more information and a complete list of award recipients, visit the Australian Education Awards website.
A heartfelt thank you to the Australian Education Awards for recognising the importance of co-curricular programs. Together, we're sowing the seeds of growth and empowerment in our young minds.