At François Ferreira Academy, we believe that learning doesn’t only happen in a classroom – it’s found in experiences that feed the soul as much as the stomach.
Recently, our apprentice chefs had the privilege of spending an unforgettable evening at the local SuperSpar in Heather Park, where they joined hands – and aprons – with the inspiring young men and women from Up with Downs, a local organisation dedicated to empowering individuals with special needs.
Together, they stepped into the SuperSpar kitchen for a hands-on pizza-making experience. With laughter bubbling, and mozzarella generously scattered, what started as a simple cooking demo quickly became a joyful exchange of skills, stories, and smiles.
For our apprentice chefs, the evening offered more than just the opportunity to teach pizza-making techniques. It was a heartwarming reminder of the power of connection and the joy that comes from sharing your craft with others. For the Up with Downs team, it was an evening of fun, learning, and confidence-building – and of course, delicious pizza!
Who is Up With Downs?
Up with Downs is a vital part of our local community, a 4-in-1 centre that includes:
- A school offering foundational academics to learners with special needs,
- A Training Centre where young adults get valuable life and work skills,
- A caring hostel, and
- An Adult Home that supports independent living with dignity.
Currently, the centre supports 40 individuals with a dedicated team of 14 staff members. Their mission is one of empowerment, inclusion, and lifelong learning.
What makes their work even more admirable is that Up with Downs receives no government subsidies, and school fees alone do not cover their operating costs. The organisation relies heavily on the generosity of donors, fundraising efforts, and community involvement to bridge the financial gap. Every event, every volunteer, and every act of kindness counts.
How You Can Help
If you’re reading this and wondering how to get involved, you can! Up with Downs is always looking for volunteers and support for their annual fundraising events and various programs. Whether it’s giving your time, your skills, or your voice to raise awareness, every little bit makes a big difference.
From Our Kitchen to the Heart of the Community
At François Ferreira Academy, we teach more than recipes, we nurture compassion, confidence, and the courage to make a difference. Partnering with Up with Downs reminded us that food brings people together in the most beautiful ways.
To the team at Up with Downs – thank you for welcoming us into your world, and for reminding us why we love what we do.
And to SuperSpar Heather Park – thank you for hosting and providing a space where community magic could happen.
We’re proud of our apprentice chefs, and we’re even prouder to be part of a community that cooks with heart.
How You Can Help
If you’re reading this and wondering how to get involved, you can! Up with Downs is always looking for volunteers and support for their annual fundraising events and various programs. Whether it’s giving your time, your skills, or your voice to raise awareness, every little bit makes a big difference.
From Our Kitchen to the Heart of the Community
At François Ferreira Academy, we teach more than recipes, we nurture compassion, confidence, and the courage to make a difference. Partnering with Up with Downs reminded us that food brings people together in the most beautiful ways.
To the team at Up with Downs – thank you for welcoming us into your world, and for reminding us why we love what we do.
And to SuperSpar Heather Park – thank you for hosting and providing a space where community magic could happen.
We’re proud of our apprentice chefs, and we’re even prouder to be part of a community that cooks with heart.
