Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) college students are taking work experience into their own hands after opening a coffee shop on campus.
The Better Brews Café, at Croydon College, is currently run by 15 SEND students, aged between 16 and 24, who prepare and serve food and drinks to students and staff.
Student Amina Yakuba who works in the café said: “I’ve learned how to stay calm when things don’t go as planned. If there’s a problem, I know I can figure it out with help from my team. It makes me feel more capable.”
As well as being trained in customer service, the students have all been trained in First Aid, Health and Safety, Manual handling, Food and Hygiene and Personal Care.
Sean Healey, another student who works in the café said he had gained confidence from the initiative.
He said: “At first, I found it difficult, but the more I interact with customers, the easier it gets. I’m proud of the progress I’ve made.”
The revenue generated by the coffee shop is then reinvested to support campus initiatives and raise awareness about the needs of SEND students.
Student and cafe worker Roger Johnson said: “The team here is really supportive, and I feel like I belong.”
Mr Johnson said the experience had taught him how to communicate better and “feel part of something.”
Patricia Watson, SEND Lecturer at Croydon College, said: “The coffee shop offers SEND students a consistent opportunity to develop work-related skills, which are essential for their personal and professional growth after graduation.
“By gaining practical experience in a supportive environment, they become better prepared for life beyond college.”
For students with sensory processing challenges, the coffee shop provides a controlled environment for sensory input, Ms Watson said.
She said: “It is helping to increase empathy and awareness within the student body – to break down stigmas and promote diversity.”
For more information about Croydon College and the courses they offer, visit the website: Croydon College | Own Your Future
Pictured top: Sean Healey working in The Better Brews Café, at Croydon College (Picture: Croydon College)
