At Blomfield Special School’s Central campus every Wednesday morning something remarkable happens - their Ako Cafe comes to life. This initiative, initially started by former Blomfield Food Technology Teacher Amie Pinson and subsequently then driven by Teacher Aide Sandy van Doorne in 2022, is transforming the lives and wellbeing of both students and staff. It is an example of Blomfield’s mantra “Discover Potential” coming to life.

When Ako Cafe opens its doors, it’s not just coffee and tea being served, it’s a unique learning experience for everyone. Students handle everything, from food preparation and cooking, taking orders, delivering items to tables, through to perfecting the art of creating coffee and tea. Listening to the voices of the students is also integral to the success of the cafe.  All this takes place under the watchful eye of Blomfield’s supportive and devoted school staff. Ako Cafe’s success lies in its sustainability and adaptability. Staff members are barista trained, passing on these skills to their students and ensuring smooth operations. If a staff member or student is absent, there is always someone else there to cover them.

   

 

In April 2023, Anna Alison was employed by Blomfield as the Food Technology Teacher. Anna’s role entails working alongside students one on one, to teach them valuable life skills relating to food technology. Under Anna’s guidance, the burden of preparation for Wednesday morning’s hour-long cafe session is eased. Each Tuesday, the planning and preparation of food to be sold in the cafe the next day takes place. All food and drink sold at the cafe costs just $2 per item and the profits from the funds raised each week accumulates and allows the students to have a special day out at the end of the year to reward them for their efforts throughout the year.

Ako Cafe is more than just food. It’s a classroom for life skills, teaching hygiene, communication, teamwork, wellbeing, fun and much more. 

Students even assist with grocery shopping each week, crafting a list and, with support, collecting the ingredients needed for the cafe. What started as an idea is now a permanent fixture at the school.  The name ‘Ako Cafe’ was deliberately chosen to signify its reciprocal learning approach and space. In a truly collaborative effort, students, working alongside Hard Materials Teacher Caleb Piggott, have created cafe items such as cutting boards, a money box, food covers, and a cafe sign to put in this special place.

 

 

 

Principal Sally Wilkinson expressed her joy at the socialisation opportunities Ako Cafe has brought. It has not only strengthened bonds between students and staff but has also created valuable job opportunities for graduates. Sally’s advice for anyone considering a similar initiative: “Start small and manageable.” 

Sally’s endorsement is echoed by the school’s Assistant Principal, Edward Jones, who proudly acknowledges Ako Cafe’s success, with all staff and students benefitting from the wonderful mahi behind the initiative.

The future of the Ako Cafe is exciting, with plans to link pathways for student leavers to workplaces. Additionally, the school is gearing up for a new gardening project, with plans for students, working alongside Caleb, to build raised garden beds which will grow produce for use in Ako Cafe as well as other school projects. It will also teach students about where food originates from, adding another layer to this special project. This entire initiative is best summed up by Caleb, who commented “I think of our students as not special needs but of special abilities.” Ako Cafe is testament to his wise words.

The Healthy Active Learning team wholeheartedly embraces this kaupapa, as it reinforces the importance of overall wellbeing for students. Ako Cafe’s commitment to teaching life skills, promoting physical activity, and fostering healthy eating. It complements and amplifies the values of Healthy Active Learning, creating a supportive environment where tamariki not only realize their potential but also thrive mentally, socially and physically.

Article written by Sport Northland Healthy Active Learning team.