Toi Ohomai graduates to march through CBD

GRAD: Katjana Bauer-Eden is a graduate of the Toi Ohomai New Zealand Certificate in Baking, Level 4. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

More than 1800 Toi Ohomai students will hit the street as they begin their graduation next week.

The new graduates will march through Tauranga CBD on Monday at 3.30pm, starting from Red Square.

Among the graduates will be Katjana Bauer-Eden, who was one of the first graduates of the Toi Ohomai New Zealand Certificate in Baking, Level 4.

The 19-year-old began her course straight from secondary school after moving to the Bay from Nelson.

"I went into it thinking I knew everything, as I'd worked in bakeries. But [the course] just showed a whole new variety of baked products, it's so much more than just cakes.

"I make awesome pastry now. Making your own pies is just so good."

She said she was looking forward to completing her Level 5 course, and would then take her skills to Europe.

"I've got two things I want to do. I really love celebration cakes, effectively great sculptures, that take hours and hours to make, and I want to write a series of travel cook books."

Ms Bauer-Eden was also the winner of the $2000 Southern Hospitality scholarship, one of five winners in the country.

The scholarship would allow her to study Level 5, moving into technical or managerial roles in the baking industry.

Bachelor of Sport and Recreation student Amy Robinson was also graduating, just a few weeks after she was named in the New Zealand Black Stick squad.

The past Tauranga Girls' College student completed her three-year degree and was currently working at the sports department of Tauranga Intermediate.

"It was awesome to live at home and do my sport and my study. I really enjoyed it. It's a good course for anyone interested in the recreation industry."

Ms Robinson was a recent recipient of the Bay of Plenty Junior Sportswoman Award and was a Toi Ohomai High Performance Sports Scholar for each year of her degree.

"The scholarship meant I had my fees paid for and access for gym facilities and tutor assistance."

More than 1800 students will graduate between Monday and Wednesday next week. The graduation parade will be held on Monday at 3.30pm, from Red Square. There are five graduation ceremonies.