Serendib Flour Mills recently conducted a comprehensive training session and bake-off for the children of the Ceylon School for the Deaf and Blind in Ratmalana. The session was conducted for students who had enrolled in the school’s baking course as part of an in-house training module. A dedicated workshop was conducted by members of the 7 Star team who shared their tips and advice with the young students. Following a thrilling bake-off, the winning students received educational scholarships to support their continued learning and development.

The company provided all of the materials and technical knowhow for the training session and bake-off and will continue to support the school’s baking programme, which was launched three years ago. The majority of students who complete the programme are able to find work in the hospitality industry or in the bakery departments of restaurants and cafés. Learning useful life skills and familiarizing themselves with practical training experiences play a crucial role in helping the students to prepare for life after school. Visually impaired children and those with hearing impediments usually have to overcome immense challenges and difficulty to transition into the workforce and find their independence. Practical training gives them the opportunity to master a skill that will enable them to enjoy a fulfilling working career and life. 

Commenting on Serendib Flour Mills’ support for the students in Ratmalana, Kevin O’leary – CEO, Serendib Flour Mills stated: “We are extremely honoured to be a part of the Deaf School’s baking programme. Our team was immensely impressed by the skills and passion that the students here demonstrated and it has been our privilege to be a part of their journey and professional development. I hope that the skills and tips that our team shared with the students, will equip them with the confidence they need to pursue a career in baking and excel in the workplace.” 

As part of their training, the students learned how to make popular local treats such as fish buns and patties and were encouraged to bake creative pastries and buns in different shapes and sizes. The students also learnt how to incorporate new techniques into the preparation and baking process to improve the overall quality of the finished products. 

The Ceylon School for the Deaf in Ratmalana is managed by a Board of Trustees and was established in 1912. A total of 700 students are currently enrolled in the school and benefit immensely from the free-of-charge education and vocational training that they receive. The school is funded by well-wishers and patrons who are committed to the cause of supporting the development of the school’s students. Led by the principal, the teaching staff at the school use a hands-on teaching approach and innovative new methods to deliver a high quality educational experience to the students that is further enhanced by skills development andtraining opportunities. The entire team at the schools strives to provide the students with the knowledge and experience that they require to integrate into society after they leave school.