Hospitality students make the grade

The efforts of school-based trainees working at Rustico Tapas and Wine Bar have paid off, with two more students signed off last Friday after completing a Certificate III in Hospitality.

The program, launched at Rustico almost two years ago, has seen six students work to complete qualifications in hospitality alongside their studies at school.

Rustico general manager Ashton Boaden said the students had fit in perfectly with the rest of the team. “It’s really nice to have the fresh energy of young people in here — it’s one of my favourite things,” Ms Boaden said.

“They’ve fit in really well — because they’re at school I think they’re in the mode of learning.”

Year 12 Kolbe Catholic College student Taylah Geling, who was one of the students, said the traineeship had opened doors not normally available. “I’m learning so much stuff I never thought I would.”

After its initial success, Ms Boaden said Rustico would look to run the program again in Rockingham and also at their second venue in Margaret River.

Other graduates include Frederick Irwin Anglican School’s Gabriella Kairys, Safety Bay Senior High School student Max Locke, Rockingham Senior High School’s Jemma Hall and Kolbe’s Georgia Jack and Jessica Hilton.