Meet Andrew

Andrew used to attend our horticulture programme at the Share Garden but was keen to get involved with the new Share Community Café, especially since he had some experience working in a café a few years ago. He was eager to build up his catering skills and hopefully work his way towards a job in the future. 

Since joining, Andrew’s been able to dive right into the hustle and bustle of café life, getting hands-on with everything from food prep to serving customers. This experience has given him a chance to sharpen key skills, like time management, teamwork, and communication. Talking with customers has also boosted his confidence and social skills, which will be valuable in any job he takes on. 

The great thing about working in the café is that it provides structure but in a relaxed, supportive environment. It’s a perfect space for students to get used to the rhythm of regular catering and hospitality work without the pressure you might find in a traditional work setting. 

We asked Andrew to tell us more about working in the café: 

What are your favourite things to do at the café? 

I like chopping vegetables and putting pasta in the pan. I like making cakes as well; I make carrot cake and brownies. I like using the coffee machine and giving coffee to customers, I like to serve customers. 

What else do you do when you work at the café? 

Sometimes I wipe the tables and the handles and sometimes the work surfaces as well. I do the dishes as well and I dry the dishes and I put them in the cupboard. 

What do you want to do in the future? 

I’d like to get a job in catering or gardening, because I’d like to get paid. And because they are good jobs and I enjoy the work.