At first glance, the bustling GESS canteen may seem like yet another integral part of daily school life, providing sustenance to hungry students and staff alike. Yet, beyond the trays of food, there lies a heartwarming story of dedication, community, and the unsung heroes who keep the canteen running smoothly. Join us as we delve into the behind-the-scene of the GESS canteen and get to know the people here!
Could you tell us a bit of yourself?
[ Jeremy ]
My name is Jeremy and I came from a different industry. I have worked in a printing firm and was a graphic designer for many years. I transitioned to HOWE Catering almost a decade ago.
[ Sheryl ]
My name is Sheryl, and I graduated from the Hotel and Restaurant Management (HRM) in the Philippines. I have worked here at HOWE Catering since 2008 as a catering officer.
[ Ah Kow ]
(In Mandarin) I am Leow Ah Kow, I’ve been working at GESS for close to 30 years.
[ Pen Yin ]
(In Mandarin) And I am Hsu Pen Yin, I’ve been working at GESS for 19 years.
How is working in an international school different from your previous workplaces?
[ Jeremy ]
The transition into the food industry was a completely new experience. Through attending multiple courses, I got to know more about food preparation and safety. Upon my interview at HOWE Catering, I found myself walking through unfamiliar territory. However, after six months of work, I gradually honed my skills, particularly in baking and serving students and teachers alike.
[ Sheryl ]
Back when I was in the Philippines, my family ran a business which was also a canteen. I remember applying to HOWE Catering when they were still stationed at the Australian International School. The tasks I handled then were quite similar to what I’m currently engaged in at GESS.
Could you share some of the times when different culinary are being served for different events here at GESS?
[ Sheryl ]
At GESS, we offer a variety of dishes tailored to different occasions and events. For Day of German Unity, classes enjoy German bread, pretzels and potato salad. During International Week, each day features cuisine from a different country such as Germany, Japan, Korea, and India, and serving delicacies like German pork sausage, schnitzel, udon, kimchi pancakes, and curry with homemade Naan. For Halloween, we bake cookies decorated with fun creepy decorations, “bloody” sausage fingers, scary cheese and macaroni, and zombie garlic bread. We also cater food for annual events like the International Summer Festival and Christmas Market, ensuring a diverse culinary experience for all.
What do you like about working here?
[ Jeremy ]
It brings me joy to see the children eagerly coming down for breakfast, lunch, or after-school snacks, selecting and eating their favourite foods. The bond shared between students and teachers feels akin to friendship, as we engage in fun conversations, and express gratitude towards the teachers for their support. There’s also a bittersweet feeling as we bid farewell to graduating students, knowing they’ll soon embark on new journeys beyond GESS.
[ Ah Kow ]
(In Mandarin) I feel connected with the students here of all ages.
[ Pen Yin ]
(In Mandarin) I feel that time passes very fast when I’m working here, as we’re always very busy from morning to evening.
Are there any other things you would like to tell our readers?
[ Ah Kow ]
(In Mandarin) I always feel very happy to see our people coming down to the canteen.
[ Pen Yin ]
(In Mandarin) I value the importance of safeguarding, where we need to seek permission before we can take photos with them. We are not allowed to ask personal questions, and they may not like it as well, we practise keeping a distance even though we are serving them food.
[ Ah Kow ]
(In Mandarin) But we do greet them and sometimes praise the younger kids!
So, the next time you grab a bite at the GESS canteen, remember to spare a moment to appreciate the friendly staff who make it all possible. They are not just serving food – they are serving up smiles, warmth, and a sense of belonging that truly makes GESS feel like home.
