Roddensvale School students excel in World of Work programme

Tuesday 26 May 2026

The Carrickfergus restaurant was so impressed by the dedication and enthusiasm of the school leaver students that it arranged two extra bespoke hospitality sessions, including the celebratory afternoon tea event.

Two Deputy Lieutenants attended on behalf of the Antrim Lieutenancy – Mrs Jackie Stewart MBE DL and Mrs Jane Allen DL – and were welcomed to the school by School Principal Mr J Madden alongside Matt McDowell, Director of People at the council.

VIP guests enjoyed an afternoon tea prepared and served by the students, showcasing the hospitality and customer service skills they developed throughout the programme.

Ten pupils from Roddensvale took part in three sessions as part of the Mid and East Antrim ‘World of Work’ programme. They gained first-hand experience in the day-to-day operation of a busy restaurant and exploring a range of hospitality roles.

The practical placements followed two introductory sessions delivered collaboratively by Papa Browns and the Tourism NI team, focusing on the importance of the hospitality sector to the local economy and the transferable skills needed to secure future employment.

Matt McDowell, Director of People at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, speaking about the afternoon tea said: “It was an honour to be part of this unique experience for Roddensvale students. The savoury and sweet elements of the afternoon tea were exquisite, and all served with smiles. I would like to commend Papa Browns for their connection with our World of Work programme and for going over and above with these extraordinary 10 students. Each one of them was excited to talk about their hospitality experience and I am confident they will be an asset to wherever they choose to work after leaving school.”

Matthew Wright, supported by Papa Browns owner Karen Greenaway, helped organise the extra sessions to further enhance the students’ learning experience. Matthew said: “From the very first meeting with the Roddensvale pupils I was impressed by their willingness to learn, dedication to providing quality food and service. Given the exceptional engagement with the pupils, I was delighted that our business could offer two additional sessions to their World of Work experience.

“The first was a session in their own school café where they served drinks and ran a tuckshop style experience. Their fellow students and teachers got to see their newly acquired skills in a real-life setting and in keeping with sound business principles, any profit will be reinvested into supplies and stock.

“Papa Browns organised an Afternoon Tea Party collaboratively with Roddensvale School to mark the conclusion of the World of Work for these outstanding pupils. At this event, the pupils really came into their own and delivered a perfect experience from prep to service. I would like to thank the school, the parents and carers for letting their young ones take part in this council organised programme. It has given me so many memories of teaching my craft to young people that I will never forget.”

The Mid and East Antrim World of Work programme was delivered in partnership with seven primary school and eight post primary schools across the Borough. Hospitality and tourism partners involved included the Galgorm Collection, Tullyglass Hotel, The Adair Arms, The Harbourview Hotel, Papa Browns and Tourism NI.