Cookery programme tutor Tony Davis (rear) is all smiles as six of his students serve up fresh wraps and muffins for lunch at Manutuke School

Children at Te Kura ō Manutuke enjoyed a tasty treat when a group of EIT catering students called into the school at lunchtime.

The students were those doing a three week introductory Culinary Concepts course before entering the Level 4 cookery certificate programme, said tutor Tony Davis.

The students, who all met part of the pre-requisite requirements for the diploma programme, needed practice in catering for a large group.

It was decided to test their skills on a group of receptive diners, in this case the Manutuke school children, to build up their confidence before testing deeper waters, such as a licenced restaurant.

“It gives everybody a good first experience,” said Mr Davis.

It was certainly a good experience for the children, who enjoyed having tasty wraps and blueberry muffins served up in professional catering style.

There were smiles all round as children thanked their hosts.

Their school was one of several smaller schools invited to take part. They were selected after being the first to reply to the free lunch offer.

The full time certificate programme starts on March 4 when the six Culinary concept students will join about 14 others who have already completed their pre-entry studies.