Our Training Programme
We work with each trainee for a period of two years. Our programme is delivered flexibly understanding the needs of the women we train and the complexity of the issues they face in life. Our training is person centred and our trainers are skilled and able to work to this approach.
In the first phase of training we meet once a week for six months. In this time our training focuses on three specific areas, and our trainees build a portfolio of their skills. Regular work experience starts in our cafe, giving our trainees the opportunity to put the skills they are learning directly into practice.
Barista Training
The women are taught barista training to intermediate level, delivered by a local coffee expert and trainer who runs his own social enterprise cafe in Meanwood.
In his workshops Andrew takes our women trainees on a journey from knowing very little about coffee to becoming confident baristas, helping them every step of the way to gain a broad knowledge of the coffee making process, and lots of time to practice!
Baking Classes
The women learn baking skills, with a particular focus on the techniques used for creating the cakes we sell in our cafe. The baking is taught by a Patisserie Chef to level 2 standard.
We also support the women to complete online certificates including Food Hygiene Level 2.
Well-being
Our afternoon workshops are delivered by a trained psychotherapist and we use a variety of approaches to look at topics that include:
Daily routine and self care, barriers we face in life, relationships, self esteem and confidence. Our aim for these workshops is to support the women to be healthy and well in life and at work.
After Graduating
When the initial six months of training is complete our trainees graduate. We celebrate this graduation with an evening of recognition and celebration, inviting referral agencies, local enterprise cafes, friends and family.
Following graduation our trainees start the next chapter of their journey with The Wren Bakery for the following 18 months. We work holistically with our trainees, offering one to one mentoring, to source work experience, placements or apply for jobs. Opportunities in the Wren Bakery Cafe continues as links with employers are sought and we transfer their skills into realistic work settings.
