In February half term four teachers took a group of ten 6th form students to the Nestlé Headquarters in Vevey, Switzerland. On arrival we settled in to our accommodation which was situated on Lake Geneva with the Alps as a backdrop. Stunning! That evening we all dressed up for the meal which was held in a Nestle conference centre a short bus journey along the Lake. It was interesting meeting the other people involved with the trip, some of whom were midwives and other health workers from the UK. There was also another School from London. They were a group of Jewish Orthodox boys. While we were tucking into a delicious meal, they were presented with plastic containers with Kosher food. It was fascinating to learn more about their religion during the trip.
The second day proved to be the heart of the trip with intense focus upon Nestle as a business. After a truly scrumptious breakfast we walked along the Lake Geneva shoreline. An early arrival at the Nestle International Headquarters ensured that we made the most of our day. There’s no doubt that it was extremely rewarding with numerous educational benefits. In particular the issue of infant formula was addressed and various points of view were considered and discussed. The discussion resulted in a more open minded approach towards Nestlé. A lecture presenting career opportunities allowed us to learn of the possible careers in the context of a large company. With a video and two presentations from relatively new additions to the company, our eyes were opened to the various jobs and skills valued in a business. Having furthered our knowledge about the numerous schemes that Nestlé are involved in to assist poorer communities in less economically developed countries, such as their Cocoa Plan, we have learnt how business can play a positive role in society. One of The Cocoa Plans principle aims is to provide the farmers with more income and training which, as well as ensuring sustainability and benefits to the farmers, will result in Nestlé receiving larger amounts of Cocoa.
The last day comprised of a trip to a nearby food museum called the Alimentarium funded by Nestlé which proved to be interesting for everyone. We had a tour from a guide who explained about the history of food and how eating preferences in different countries developed and then we went on to taste 3 different soups for lunch which included food staples from different parts of the world ie lentils, chick peas and potato/macaroni.
Overall, the trip was an experience to be remembered by all who took part. The insight into a world renowned business provided us with food for thought and has influenced our outlooks on future possibilities. In all, a very successful trip!
Rachel Sherrington & Frances Rougvie [Lower 6th]
Please click here to see more photos of our fantastic trip