Baking as a metaphor for living with intention
In July of 2025, Youth Train in Trades student Saxyn Simpson-Ferguson had the opportunity of a lifetime: to study the art of baking and pastry-making in France.
Saxyn was enrolled in VCC’s Baking and Pastry Arts level 1 course through her high school, Gleneagles Secondary in Coquitlam. Thanks to the generosity of the French Consulate General and the VCC Foundation, she won a scholarship to travel abroad and immerse herself in her passion for baking at École Fauchon in Rouen, a place famous for its status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
Saxyn spent three weeks in Rouen where she not only studied her craft, she became captivated with the French way of life and its emphasis on culinary tradition.
“Travelling to France was transformative," says Saxyn, embracing the joie de vivre. "It not only reshaped my language skills, it changed my entire outlook on life. I stepped out of my comfort zone and found myself in a place of constant growth. I learned to speak with more confidence, not only in French, but in how I presented myself to the world.”
Saxyn said her studies in France extended well beyond the school kitchen. She was inspired to learn as much about the culture and their food traditions as possible.
“Diving into the French gastronomy scene awakened a passion in me I had not fully embraced before," she adds. "From walking through the lively farmer’s markets in Roeun to going to cosy candlelit restaurants in Paris, I came to realize how food can tell stories of history, of places and of connection. I also learned that life should be savoured slowly, it’s about quality over quantity not only in my recipes, but in how I approach work, relationships and my creativity. In France, I feel l learned about living a life of intention. It was transformative in every way!”
What’s next for Saxyn? With her level 1 apprenticeship now behind her, she says, “I’d love to continue exploring other cultures and learning their pastry techniques. There’s always more to know, and more to eat!”
Inspired by this story? Learn more about the Baking Foundation program.