St. Joan of Arc’s Burger Wars: A Culinary Showdown That Serves Up Learning and Leadership

St. Joan of Arc’s Burger Wars: A Culinary Showdown That Serves Up Learning and Leadership

At St. Joan of Arc Catholic High School, one of the most anticipated events of the semester isn’t found on the stage or the field, but in the kitchen.

For over a decade, the Grade 12 Burger Wars has been a beloved and delicious tradition that continues to bring flavour, fun and formation to our senior Nutrition and Health students. Held each semester, this spirited culinary showdown is more than a friendly competition, it’s a powerful learning experience that blends nutrition education with hands-on skill-building.

Working in teams, students are challenged to create unique, creative and mouth-watering burgers that showcase both their culinary talent and their understanding of nutritional principles. From plant-based masterpieces to culturally inspired creations, the results are as impressive as they are tasty.

But Burger Wars is about far more than what ends up on the plate. The project fosters collaboration, critical thinking and real-world problem solving. Students take on roles in planning, food preparation, presentation and even marketing, mirroring the dynamics of a fast-paced professional kitchen. They learn to manage time, delegate tasks and support one another, all while working under pressure and aiming for excellence.

Above all, Burger Wars brings out the best in our students: creativity, teamwork, leadership and joy. It exemplifies the kind of meaningful, engaging learning that Catholic education strives to deliver, where students are formed not just in knowledge, but in skill, character and community.

Special thanks to Ms. Pincivero, our dedicated Food and Nutrition teacher, and to Vice Principal Saggese for their ongoing support of this incredible tradition. Your leadership and encouragement continue to make Burger Wars a highlight of the school year.

Congratulations to the Grade 12 students for another outstanding round of Burger Wars! Your efforts remind us that education can be delicious and that the best learning often happens when we gather, create and share together.