Recipe for Success!

For many students, the end of Senior School marks a crossroads. But for Adia Fourie (Year 12), the path ahead was clear - Paris was calling, and so was the world of French pastry. With a lifelong passion for baking and a drive for adventure, Adia has secured a place at École Ducasse, one of the world’s most prestigious culinary schools. In February 2026, she will embark on a three-year Bachelor of French Pastry Arts, taking the next step toward turning her dream into reality.

École Ducasse has been ranked the world’s best culinary school for several years, and admission is highly competitive. Securing a place before even graduating high school is an extraordinary achievement, one that speaks to Adia’s dedication and talent. This opportunity is not just about refining her pastry skills; it’s about embracing new experiences, immersing herself in French culture, and shaping a future doing what she loves. With determination and passion, Adia is set to make her mark on the world of pâtisserie, one exquisite creation at a time.

Having never been to Paris or even Europe, this journey for Adia is as much about discovery as it is about dough. The excitement isn’t just for the pastries; it’s for the whole Parisian experience—bustling cafés, stunning architecture, and the rich culinary history that makes France the heart of haute cuisine.

One key ingredient in making this opportunity possible for Adia was studying French at HVGS. Moving nearly 17,000km away is a daunting step, but having a solid grasp of the language gave Adia the confidence to take the leap. Without those years of language study, the dream of living and learning in France might have remained just that—a dream.

“I think if I hadn’t been able to study French, I wouldn’t have even considered the opportunity,” says Adia. Language teacher Kerry Blatchley is thrilled to see Adia’s hard work pay off. “It’s incredible to watch students set their sights on a goal, give it their all, and achieve such tremendous success,” says Kerry. “Adia’s journey is also a testament to the incredible opportunities that language learning provides by broadening horizons, opening international pathways, and highlighting the unique advantages of the IB Programmes.”

At the core of this adventure is a simple but powerful goal: to create a career that brings true joy. “Too many people find themselves stuck in jobs they don’t love, but I hope to be successful in a career that I enjoy,” says Adia. With an adventurous spirit, a love for baking, and a pinch of courage, this young pâtissier is on the way to turning dreams into reality. Paris, get ready. Adia is ready to rise to the challenge!