A Sweet Journey: Graz and Zotter’s Chocolate factory
17/12/2024
On December 2nd, our MYP students embarked on an exciting educational adventure to Graz, blending history, geography, and literature into a single, memorable experience.
The day began with a tour of Graz’s Old Town, where students explored the city’s rich history and architectural beauty. Walking through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, they learned about Graz’s cultural importance and how geography shaped its development over centuries. Adding to the festive charm, a visit to the Christmas markets allowed the students to immerse themselves in local holiday traditions, sparking conversations about culture and community.
The trip’s sweetest moment came with a visit to the Zotter Chocolate Factory in Riegersburg. This wasn’t just about chocolate (though tasting it was certainly a highlight). Students witnessed the detailed chocolate-making process and connected what they saw to themes from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the beloved book they are currently reading. Discussions ranged from ethical production and sustainability—key aspects of Zotter’s philosophy—to the fantastical elements of Willy Wonka’s factory, encouraging comparisons between fiction and reality.
Through this hands-on experience, students also explored the global journey of cacao, from its origins in tropical climates to its transformation into world-famous chocolate—a lesson in geography, history, and global interconnectedness.
At our IB school, we believe in making education tangible and relevant. Trips like this bring literature to life, connect students with history, and deepen their understanding of the world around them.
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