Rushden student Michael’s journey towards catering career helped along by cafe
Student Michael Cole has been taking on work experience at Cafe 16.15 in Rushden, learning valuable skills to set him up for a career in catering.
Since April, Michael has been volunteering at the cafe, learning the ins-and-outs of the hospitality, from customer service, to stock rotation and hygiene.
Having on-the-job experience has been vital in helping Michael not only to learn the business, but also to grow in confidence.
Rachael Cole, Michael’s stepmum, said: “We are incredibly proud of Michael.
“Volunteering has helped Michael develop his confidence, communication and workplace skills, giving him valuable experience as he prepares to find employment next year.
“He approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and determination, it is fantastic to see him growing in confidence and making such a positive impact. A huge thanks to Stan for giving Michael this opportunity.”
Cafe 16.15 is led by Stan Robertson, who opened the cafe in July 2025 as a means to provide locals with good food, while also helping those in need, with16.15 being a reference to the Gospel of Mark, which says to ‘go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’
Michael, a student at Chelveston Road School, which caters to students with learning needs and autism, is keen to pursue a career in catering when he leaves education next year.
Volunteering at the cafe in Hamlin Court, Rushden, has helped him to learn essential skills, while also achieving his level 2 food hygiene certification.
Michael said: “I enjoy cooking so much, I thought I could do it as my job. What’s a job if you don’t enjoy it?
“The customers have been really nice.”
While Project 16.15, the charity which encompasses the cafe, started as a community outreach project in Northampton, it announced last month that it will no longer provide its regular street-level support in Northampton due to ‘limited support from the wider system’, opting to continue its mission in Rushden.
Rachael added: “Stan is giving youngsters within the community to learn those skills to get into work. It’s difficult for young people to get work experience and get into jobs these days.
“Michael takes the initiative to learn about teamwork, and what his role is within a team, which are skills he can take with him.
“The biggest thing are his communication and life skills, going into school he’s more confident because he’s used to talking to different kinds of people. He never would have had that kind of exposure had he not had this opportunity.”