A Day Trip In Wine Country

August 6, 2021

Geography is one of those subjects where regardless of how good the teacher is, classroom learning is never going to impact students as profoundly as getting out there and into the field.

Last week, Year 11 Geography students spent a wet and windy day in the Swan Valley on a wine tour with a difference. Students, Tessa Cattalini and Grace Peacock share their experiences of the day below.

Last Friday our Year 11 Geography class went on a field trip to the Swan Valley so that we could connect our learning about wine production to a real wine-making environment.

We first went to Upper Reach Winery where Laura Pearse, the owner, gave us a tour of her property and explained the process of grape growing, winemaking, packaging, and distribution. She also explained the business side of things. This was really interesting and beneficial as we were able to actually see how the full process is carried out which created a deeper understanding of wine production for us all.

While taking in the geography of the Swan Valley we made our way to Sandalford winery and Mandoon Estate, observing land-use changes in the area. At both of these vineyards we were able to see facilities on a larger scale than at Upper Reach, really emphasising the agritourism push within the valley.

Unfortunately, on our way home, we took a wrong turn and ended up at the Margaret River Chocolate Factory. No complaints there!

We all learnt a lot on this field trip and found it valuable to see real wine-making practices in action.

ConnectingLearning2Life, Feature

Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.