Pupils across Year 8 at Worksop College have spent the last week learning about the billion-pound coffee industry, right from bean to barista.
A project spanning all subject areas, pupils worked in one of three groups, with all curriculum areas covered as part of the week’s activities.
From researching the history and ethics of the coffee industry to the geography of the world’s biggest coffee-growing countries, impact on the economy to the size and shape of the market – the week has been an opportunity for pupils to work together to develop independence, adaptability and resilience.
And as part of the programme, each group developed a business plan, researched the local and regional market, creating branding and point of sale to open a ‘coffee shop’ for staff and parents at the end of the week.
As well as shopping for ingredients and making decisions around stock, pupils were responsible for deciding on the values of their coffee ‘brand’, helping to lead their business decisions and way in which they marketed their company.
“We are focused on giving our pupils experiences and practical skills that they will be able to take into other areas of their lives and beyond into their careers.
Helen, who led the project continued:
"Our Year 8 pupils are some of the youngest in our school, but the way in which they approached and embraced this project was exciting to watch."
Worksop College welcomed Year 7 and 8 to the senior school site in September 2016, moving into a dedicated junior facility, from prep school, Ranby House - based a short drive away.
Headmaster, Gavin Horgan said:
”Our Learner Profile determines the type of learners we want our pupils to be. All aspects of this project sought to develop the key skills of independence, adaptability and resilience and we are very pleased with the way Year 8 has risen to the challenge.”
Year 8 pupil, Paige Hawkins said:
"I really enjoyed this week because it gave us new experiences and opportunities. It was great for team building and making new friends. Everyone worked well over the week, learning about where and how coffee is made, also who the coffee went through. We also learned about the history of it."
All proceeds will be going to homeless charity, Shelter.