When you think of iconic brands and products, there are few countries that rival Italy. From luxury brands to humble cooking ingredients, Italy is well-known for its successful businesses and in an action-packed itinerary over the midterm break, 19 of our Grade 10 and 11 students went to see for themselves how these internationally-renowned products are produced.
The Business Management; Change, Creativity & Sustainability trip to Italy began in Maranello in the Emilia-Romagna province in Northern Italy. The first major stop was to Madonne Caseificia dell’Emilia, a parmigiano factory, to go behind the scenes of the business with a guided tour and enjoy cheese tasting. Keeping in theme with some of Italy’s most famous exports, the group also enjoyed a visit to a famous balsamic vinegar factory in Modena. These stops to some of Italy’s most famous exports were only the beginning.
One of the highlights of the trip was the visit to the Lamborghini Automobile Museum, where our students went to learn the history and inner workings of the luxury brand.
I learned a ton from the visit to Lamborghini. I liked how it was a different type of experience and I was surprised by how much we got to see and the details they shared. It was easy to see how this experience directly correlated with what we had learned in our business course this year. — Luke
The action-packed itinerary was full of behind-the-scenes access to both businesses and the experts that run them. From a guided tour of Malenchini Società Semplice Agricola to see their olive oil cellars and production process, to Gelateria della Passera to meet their master gelato maker at their gelato shop and laboratory, and even a meeting with the restaurant manager of Rubaconte where they were visiting for dinner one night, the students learned firsthand what it takes to run these successful businesses.
The students also enjoyed some hands-on workshops, incorporating a creative experience as part of the Diploma Programme Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) course. This included a traditional Italian cooking class and a paper-making workshop where students got to be involved in each step of the process for producing their own goods.
And of course they couldn’t miss the incredible architecture of the cities, including walking tours of Modena, Parma, Florence and a visit to The Accademia gallery to immerse the students in Italian art and culture.
A Trip to Remember
These global experiences highlight the international connectedness that is a core component of the IB Programme. Not only that, it gives students the chance to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Before the trip my impression of Italy, like many of us, was very surface level. On this trip I got to connect with Italy’s culture and the beauty of the country through the variety of experiences. I am very grateful for having the opportunity to see both how these international businesses are run, but also how they impact Italian culture. — Chloe
I gained a lot by being in a new environment and learning about Italian culture and values. Not only did I learn how businesses operate in Italy but I gained an insight into the cuisine, architecture and culture of the country. Most of all, I’m really grateful for all the chaperones and Ms. Bereti for organizing the trip and for making it a once in a lifetime experience! — Maggie
We can’t wait to see what adventures our students go on next!
