The Met School group internship Kitchen Brigades are an exciting and meaningful opportunity for students to experience the culinary world in a real, hands-on way. Through this nationally recognized program, students step beyond the classroom and into professional kitchen environments where they develop practical skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of food and teamwork.

Kitchen Brigades Canada is a Canadian culinary education program founded by Michael Smith. The program was created to give young people meaningful access to food education and potential culinary careers. It connects students directly with professional chefs and real working kitchens, allowing them to learn by doing rather than simply observing. For Met School students, this aligns perfectly with the internship-based, experiential learning model that defines our approach to education.

Across the Met School Kitchen Brigades groups, students spend dedicated time building foundational culinary skills. They practice knife techniques, food preparation, kitchen organization, and food safety standards. They learn how to follow recipes accurately, manage time effectively, and communicate clearly in a fast-paced environment. Just as importantly, they develop teamwork skills—understanding how each role in a kitchen contributes to the success of the whole brigade.

One of the greatest strengths of the program is its mentorship. Students are guided by professional chefs who bring industry knowledge, high standards, and real-world experience into every session. These mentors not only teach cooking techniques but also model professionalism, leadership, and resilience. Students gain insight into the realities of culinary careers while building transferable skills such as responsibility, collaboration, and problem-solving.

The experience culminates in an exciting final cook-off challenge. Schools compete by showcasing their culinary creativity, technical skill, and teamwork. This event pushes students to apply everything they have learned in a high-energy, authentic setting. For some, it opens the door to advancing to national competitions, where they can represent their school and community on a larger stage across Canada.

Through Kitchen Brigades, our three Met School internship groups are not only learning how to cook—they are learning how to work with purpose, confidence, and pride. The program strengthens practical skills, builds character, and fosters a lasting appreciation for food, nutrition, and collaborative kitchen environments.