SFX food studies students turn a market visit into real-world learning

The vibrant colours, aromas and energy of the markets provided the perfect classroom recently, as St Francis Xavier College Year 11 and 12 Food Studies students stepped beyond the school gates for a hands-on learning experience in seasonal food, sustainability and independence.

Bringing together students of different ages, strengths and learning needs, the excursion highlighted the strength of SFX’s inclusive and nurturing learning environment. It also demonstrated how powerful learning can be when students engage directly with the real world.

Armed with their Market Visit & Observations sheets, students explored stalls to identify fruits and produce currently in season, compare prices, assess quality using their senses, and begin thinking about flavour combinations for their upcoming jam-making project.

The visit connected directly to their assessment tasks while building practical food literacy skills — from understanding seasonal produce to considering sustainability in food production.

Beyond the academic learning, the day also offered valuable opportunities for students to develop independence and confidence. For many, choosing and purchasing their own lunch was a meaningful milestone, while conversations with stallholders opened students’ eyes to the stories behind the food we eat.

Throughout the visit, the excitement and curiosity of the students were unmistakable.

Mac B was buzzing from the moment the group stepped off the bus. “This is so cool, Mrs Ripper!” she exclaimed, before confidently ordering her own gelato — declaring, “I want all the gelato, but make it chocolate thanks!”

For Molly, the visit quickly became the “best day ever.” She was thrilled to visit Four Mill Bakery — a favourite of her mum’s — and after lunch purchased a treat to take home. Her thoughtful manners made such an impression that the baker gifted her a seasonal strawberry Danish.

Joey’s enthusiasm was equally infectious. “Mrs Ripper, this is the best lesson ever!” he said as he independently ordered a giant chocolate muffin, a cookie and a Coke. After patiently waiting for dumplings, he beamed when they arrived: “Well will you look at that!”

Across the markets, students were exploring, tasting and learning together. Izzy and Ava spent the afternoon chatting and trying new foods, while Emerson happily enjoyed fried rice before politely asking for help to buy a lemon drink — her manners leaving a lasting impression.

Sybilla and Ella weren’t hungry but were deeply engaged in the task, carefully examining nutrition labels and exploring unfamiliar produce. Olivia G and Chloe showed wonderful kindness and inclusion, supporting their peers throughout the excursion.

Elsewhere, Paige and Lucia embraced the experience with curiosity, chatting with stallholders and sampling new foods. Ewan happily discussed pastries with Molly while searching for seasonal fruit, while Will and Levi declared their shared pizza the “best pizza ever.”

Moments like these capture the heart of the SFX learning experience — authentic, joyful and grounded in real life.

Behind the scenes, the day ran smoothly thanks to the support of staff members Jen Modun and Sarah Stubbs, whose care, organisation and encouragement ensured every student could participate fully.

The excursion reflects the broader learning culture developing within the Year 11–12 Food Studies program — one built on inclusion, collaboration and respect. Within this mixed-ability class, students are not only learning about food, sustainability and practical skills, but also about empathy, teamwork and celebrating each other’s strengths.

These are lessons that extend well beyond the kitchen.

Each week, students are growing in confidence, independence and compassion, creating a learning environment where everyone feels supported and valued. In the process, they are developing skills and perspectives that could lead to future pathways in hospitality, food production, community services and other people-focused industries.

Most importantly, they are learning what it means to be thoughtful members of a community.

And on this particular day at the markets, those lessons were served with a generous helping of curiosity, laughter and chocolate gelato.