Steeve Haller, a committed educator for young people at Birdhouse

The Birdhouse, our Geneva-based vocational training restaurant for young people who have dropped out of school, aims to support young apprentices until they obtain their diploma (AFP or CFC). To this end, professionals supervise them on a daily basis to ensure they are in the best possible conditions to succeed. Story of the day: Steeve Haller, integration coach since the Birdhouse opened in 2019.

• Steeve, can you tell us what your job is all about?

I deal with apprentices' social and personal problems to improve their situation and enable them to concentrate on their training.

• Why did you choose to work with young people who have dropped out of school?

Firstly because I'm good at building relationships with young people. I think they're our future and working with them means improving our own future. I also have a good knowledge of and a keen interest in Geneva's social structures, which help people under the age of 25.

• What do you like best about your job?

The diversity of situations and the pedagogical and educational freedom with which I can approach them. The fact that it's a 'small' structure too, because it's easy to adapt to these situations. And of course, the food!

• What makes the Birdhouse approach special?

We take young people "where they are now" and support them individually to enable them to complete their training, while taking into account their personal situation.

• How are young people evaluated?

On their interpersonal skills, taking into account their ability to communicate, ask for help, ask questions and work as part of a team. According to their know-how, by taking into account their learning methodology, the application of what they have learnt in class, the technique related to the trade and their knowledge during the exams.

• What's the biggest challenge in your job?

Managing to satisfy the requirements of everyone, including: the economic and social needs of the restaurant, the trainers, the requirements of the public services in terms of training, the young people and the youth network. 

• Do you see any similarities or differences between the young people you support?

Each young person has different obstacles, but they all need to establish a relationship with the coach or trainers before opening up and asking for help. They're also all eager to finish once they reach the final year. 

• The final word: what's the greatest satisfaction in your job?

Seeing the apprentices pass their exams, of course!

Steeve, like the whole Birdhouse team, is committed to helping vulnerable young people on a daily basis. We offer them the chance to become independent thanks to high-quality vocational training and personalised support. Whether they decide to stay in the catering industry or go on to higher education, the aim is to give them the opportunity to make plans for the future. Every year, 15 apprentices are trained in the restaurant. To find out more: https://www.faai-restauration.ch/