The Brew Crew from Autism Unlimited’s Portfield School in Christchurch put training into action from mobile coffee van

YOUNG trainee baristas at a specialist school in Christchurch have been putting their skills to good use by serving the community from a converted horsebox.

The students, who attend Portfield Schhol Sixth Form run by chairty Autism Unlimited, make up the ‘Brew Crew’, an initiative set up to equip its young people with practical work experience as they transition into adulthood and employment.

Putting their training into action, the students have been serving up coffee to neighbours Beaulieu Garage in Airfield Road, which has a monthly Coffee and Cars meet-up.

Tutor Tim Hewitt, a former barista with more than 20 years’ experience, said: “We were thrilled when they asked us to provide the coffee for these events.

“It has enabled the students to learn how to manage their time and sell, make, and serve drinks to a queue of waiting customers, which they have dealt with excellently.

“It’s been wonderful to see students engaging with people and everyone agrees their coffee is delicious. We are now hoping to attend other small, local events and would love to hear from event organisers who are interested in hosting us.”

Small groups of students have been enjoying 10-week courses with Tim in a horsebox - converted by Autism Unlimited into a mobile coffee bar.

“The Brew Crew is a great initiative in which students can gain valuable insight into the world of work and enjoy hands-on experience, whilst developing and practising key life skills including cash handling, following instructions, and cleaning,” said Tim

“This boosts their CV and equips them with the tools and confidence they need for the workplace as they move towards adulthood.”

He added: “It’s also a lot of fun, great for their wellbeing, and you can see their self-esteem growing as they learn.”

Student Luca, who is partway through the course, said: “I enjoy making coffee and frothing the milk and of course drinking it afterwards. Tim is a great teacher, and I have been using my barista skills at my work experience placement at a café.”

Siún Cranny, CEO of Autism Unlimited, said she was “exceptionally proud” of the young baristas.

“I feel very lucky to have tasted their coffee,” she added. “The ginger one invented by one of our students is surprisingly delicious.”

Any groups interested in having the Brew Crew at their events can email: tina.flower@autism-unlimited.org or Maureen.harrington@autism-unlimited.org