Holy CrossCatholic Secondary School

Students in Chris Beatty’s Grade 11/12 Culinary Arts class at Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School joined students in Niagara College’s Culinary Arts program to pitch a project to White Oakes in Niagara-on-the-Lake. 

The activity focused on event planning, marketing, and budgeting, with students working in groups to develop a marketing and event plan to connect locals with the facility. Each team created its own campaign, from a general one, to one called Better Together, and another focused on Healthy Living. The students pitched their ideas to White Oakes staff, as well as Niagara College professors and coordinators, with Better Together finishing on top.  

The Innovation Mentorship Program is led by Niagara College’s Research and Innovation division and its Student Recruitment team, with the aim of showcasing what Niagara College has to offer local students. 

“Programs such as this create valuable opportunities for students to develop presentation, leadership, and creative skills,” said Mr. Beatty. “Many students were eager to engage with the curriculum, which introduced them to new methods of learning and provided a glimpse into post-secondary education.  

Overall, this unique experience positively impacted my students by presenting professional challenges they might not have otherwise encountered.”

The students also found this opportunity a great way to expand their culinary experience. 

“This was real, industry experience, and it was the most educational assignment we’ve had. We loved the exposure to a real industry partner and having the opportunity to work on a real-world challenge,” she said.