One of the best things you can have in your job is a supportive team around you. It’s something Jerome Nearhos values deeply in his role as Catering Assistant with Chartwells at Cranbrook School in Sydney.
Jerome’s journey with Compass Group Australia (CGA) began during high school when he joined the Chartwells team for work experience while training with the Jigsaw Academy, an organisation dedicated to training and transitioning people living with disability into mainstream employment. At Jigsaw, Jerome acquired work-readiness skills at his own pace, empowering him in the workplace.
What started as work experience evolved into a full-time position in early 2023. While working mainly at the Hive Café at Cranbrook School, Jerome began with tasks like cleaning tables, stocking drinks and packing cookies but as he learned more, his role expanded.
“I love working at the Hive Café with my team,” Jerome shares. “It’s rewarding, watching students happily eating all the good food the chefs make. I’m excited to learn new skills.”
Jerome’s perseverance and willingness to try new things have enabled him to conquer his fears and achieve greater independence.
The Chartwells team is delighted to have Jerome and has enjoyed watching him grow and develop. “Many say Jerome’s positive and upbeat demeanour rubs off on others and lifts their spirits,” shares Jerome’s parents, Tracey and Mark Nearhos.
“Compass Group Australia has helped Jerome realise his dream of working in hospitality, and he loves being part of the Chartwells team,” they share. “Jerome feels like he has a purpose and can contribute to his community. Every interaction we’ve had with the Chartwells team has shown us that they are genuinely an inclusive and diverse organisation and that he is a valued member of the team.”
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