Students at La Salle College had a unique opportunity last term to learn practical skills in a major local industry, planting the College’s own micro-vineyard. 

The Year 11 students are learning about viticulture and the chemistry of wine making as part of their General Science course. 

Located in the Swan Valley, the College is in the heart of one of the major grape-growing and wine-making regions in WA, and the micro-vineyard experience has been offered in partnership with expert members of the local community. 

The plants for the vineyard were donated by Nikola Estate Winery, with Matt, their Vineyard Manager, working with students on the project. 

La Salle College Year 11 General Science course planting the College’s micro-vineyard with assistance from Nikola Estate Winery’s Vineyard Manager.

Students also visited John Kosovich Winery to meet with Ray, their viticulturalist, and a former La Sallian, to gain hands on experience with the viticulture process.

Fredrick, one of the students in the course, said he enjoyed being part of the vineyard planting.

“I have learnt to care for the vines, and the process of grafting to ensure the growth of the plant,

“The ability to nurture something like a grape vine helps develop patience and growth within a person,” he said.

With a number of current and former College families involved in the industry, the course aims to kindle a passion and potential career pathway for students. 

While the micro-vineyard is in the hands of the 2021 students for now, the College hopes it will be nurtured by future students for many years to come.

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