On a sunny morning, a group of enthusiastic Year 7– 9 students embarked on an educational journey to a local coffee plantation and factory, My Liberica Coffee Plantation.
The visit was designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the coffee production process, from the cultivation of beans to the final aromatic cup of coffee enjoyed in a café.
The tour began with a guided walk through the sprawling coffee plantation. Students were introduced to the lush coffee plants.
As part of the hands-on experience, students were given the opportunity to taste raw coffee beans. The guide encouraged them to compare the flavours and textures of different stages of the bean, from the green, unroasted state to the more familiar roasted bean. This sensory experience highlighted the transformative journey of the coffee bean.
In addition to coffee, the plantation also featured lime and cacao plants. Students were invited to taste fresh limes and cacao fruit. The tangy and refreshing flavour of the limes contrasted sharply with the rich, sweet taste of the cacao fruit. This segment of the tour underscored the diverse agricultural practices present on the plantation and the variety of crops cultivated alongside coffee.
The next phase of the visit took the students to the coffee factory, where they witnessed the intricate process of coffee production. The guide walked them through each step, from the harvesting of the ripe coffee cherries to the meticulous sorting and grading process. They observed the beans being dried, hulled, and roasted, gaining a deeper appreciation for the labour-intensive journey that transforms a humble cherry into a beloved beverage.
The visit concluded at the plantation’s café, where students were treated to freshly brewed coffee made from the beans they had followed through the production process. As they sipped their coffee, they discussed the nuances of its flavour, now equipped with a newfound understanding of the journey from bean to cup.
Overall, the visit was a unique blend of learning and tasting, leaving students with lasting impressions and a greater connection to the world of coffee.