Students from Aureus School ended the school term with a visit to Cadbury World, where curriculum learning in design, manufacturing and hospitality was brought to life through a day of practical activities and careers-focused experiences.
A total of 62 pupils from Years 8 and 9 travelled from Didcot to Birmingham as part of the school’s Design and Technology (DT) and Hospitality and Catering programme.
The visit was organised to help students connect classroom learning with real industry settings, while also broadening awareness of possible career routes linked to food production, engineering, product development and hospitality.
“The trip was designed to support careers education within Design and Technology, giving pupils insight into the wide range of roles within the food, manufacturing, design, and hospitality sectors,” explained Lamprini Adam, who organised the trip.
Students began the day with an educational workshop followed by a careers-focused presentation, before taking part in a guided factory experience exploring the history, production and commercial development of one of Britain’s best-known confectionery brands.
“Students began the day with an educational workshop and careers-focused talk, followed by a guided tour of the Cadbury factory,” she continued.
Among the highlights was the attraction’s immersive 4D Chocolate Adventure, alongside opportunities to design their own chocolate creations and observe elements of real production processes.
“Highlights included the immersive 4D Chocolate Adventure; the chance to design and create their own chocolate products; seeing real production processes; and understanding how design, engineering, and hospitality roles contribute to the industry.
“Pupils particularly enjoyed the hands-on creative elements, and the behind-the-scenes look at how a major brand operates.”
The trip forms part of a wider effort by the school, which is part of GLF Schools, to strengthen links between curriculum subjects and future employment opportunities.
There are now plans for the visit to become a regular fixture in the school calendar.
“Trips like this are incredibly valuable,” added Mrs Adam. “They allow pupils to see real-world applications of their classroom learning; explore career pathways linked to DT and Hospitality and Catering; gain inspiration and motivation by experiencing industry environments first hand; and develop confidence, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of future opportunities.
“Experiences outside the classroom help students make meaningful connections between their studies and the world of work, enriching both their learning and their aspirations.”
