Westminster Students Lead the Way in Farm-to-Table Barramundi Production
The production of barramundi by Westminster’s Year 7 agriculture students has played a role in securing a major award for the School’s catering partner.
As part of the Our Future is Us initiative, students gained hands-on knowledge of aquaculture, sustainability and the science behind barramundi farming through the School’s state-of-the-art recirculating aquaculture system in the Thomas Foods International Centre for Agriculture.
Two student groups took their learning further by collaborating closely with Westminster’s catering provider, gather by Cater Care. They supplied freshly farmed barramundi directly to the School’s boarding kitchens, experiencing firsthand the farm-to-table connection and how sustainable farming supports nutritious, locally sourced meals.
Last week, gather by Cater Care was named Best Education Caterer at the South Australian Restaurant & Catering Awards — recognition that reflects the exceptional meals served to students, boarders, staff and visitors, including the barramundi produced by Westminster’s Year 7 students.
Westminster Principal Simon Shepherd acknowledged the significant role Cater Care plays in supporting the School community.
“Cater Care’s strong commitment to quality and nutrition ensures our students, boarders, staff and visitors enjoy considered and well prepared meals every day.
We continue to enjoy a strong relationship with Cater Care and their initiative goes beyond our boarders, with our Canteen and Café provide all students and staff with an enviable array of delicious offerings ”
Westminster’s Head of Agriculture, Andrew Malcom, said innovative hands-on experiences like this offer students much more than theoretical learning.
“The Our Future is Us initiative and its partnership with gather by Cater Care not only gave students practical insight into the supply chain but also strengthened the connection between their agricultural efforts and the School community,” Mr Malcom said.
“We are committed to normalising agriculture for everyone at Westminster — not just those already connected or passionate about the subject.”
Students were immersed in the full barramundi production cycle, exploring aquaculture — the fastest-growing sector in global agriculture — and learning about sustainability, efficiency and environmental requirements of this vital food source.
“While projects like this create engaging experiences, our priority is always to instil deeper understandings. Students are expected to understand the biology of the fish, feed conversion ratios, water quality management, system operations and even market analysis — not just participate.”
Learn more about the opportunities Westminster’s Agriculture Program offers.