Birdhouse : training restaurant in Geneva

Switzerland

Geneva

Context

Every year in the canton of Geneva, more than 900 young people aged 16 to 25 drop out of education before obtaining a diploma. Young people without qualifications are more vulnerable, and their risk of becoming unemployed is fourfold.

Local partners

Ecole Hôtelière de Genève
Gourmet Brothers

Objectives

Provide training leading to a diploma
Put young people in work situations and promote their professional integration
Rebuild the confidence of the young people

An apprentice and two trainers in the kitchen of Birdhouse, Switzerland © Loïc Henin

Activities

Birdhouse is a training restaurant that enables young people who have dropped out of school to enrol in a dual training course leading to a diploma in service or cooking. The aim is to enable around 40–50 graduates over ten years to enter the workplace rapidly and sustainably. Since its launch in 2019, 90% of the apprentices who went for a diploma have passed it.

The project consists of a “made-to-measure” structure with personalized follow-up and support, without losing sight of the overall goal of successful training and sustainable reintegration. A training and integration coach is permanently on hand to ensure the social and educational well-being of the apprentices. Another key aspect of the project is creative cooking with local and seasonal products to encourage a responsible approach to the environment.