LEESBURG, Va. (CBSDC) — A group of Virginia middle school students discovered firsthand Tuesday that long division and chocolate cake have more in common than they thought.

Eighth-graders from Belmont Ridge Middle School in Leesburg brought their math skills into the kitchen to discover how the lessons they’re learning in the classroom translate to the real world through a business partnership program with the National Conference Center.

Students worked Tuesday with NCC Executive Chef Craig Mason to see how math skills are used in the kitchen by determining food costs and menu pricing. Mason also gave instruction on the importance of plate presentation and students prepared their own desserts.

The school’s business partnership program, now in its fifth year, is designed to interest students in careers in hospitality by giving them a behind-the-scenes look at the hospitality industry, including business operations, planning an event, marketing, culinary techniques and employee roles and responsibilities.

Follow WNEW on Twitter.