On Tuesday, 8 September 2026, the Grade 10 Accounting learners traded their classroom ledgers for a hands-on look at the business operations of Grabouw and the picturesque Elgin Valley. Guiding them through the region’s commercial hubs was long-time local resident Ms Norma Bridgman (E56).
The day began at Oak Valley Estate, located off the N2, where students stepped inside massive greenhouses to observe large-scale flower production. They then toured the estate’s winery, gaining insight into how Elgin’s microclimate shapes wine production—and the complex cost structures that go into every bottle. Beyond its vineyards, the sprawling estate is known for its iconic oak trees and extensive apple and pear orchards.
The final leg of the tour took the class to Valley Packers, a high-volume fruit packing facility. Here, learners watched sorting and packaging lines in action, explored the facility’s immense cold-storage units, and unpacked the real-world logistics of supply and demand. They saw firsthand how local produce is managed for distribution, from nearby supermarket shelves to export markets across Europe and the UK.
