Last week the Year 3 students took a short trip down the road to visit Brew Heart Coffee shop, where most of the staff employed are visually impaired. Year 3 have been studying about equality, rights, and disabilities in our “Who We Are” unit of inquiry and were excited for an authentic chance to learn about living and working with a disability. 

After an introduction from Tracy, the manager, about the company and how it helps support the blind community in Guangzhou, students watched demonstrations of how the baristas make coffee. There were lots of questions and observations from the students as they saw the different methods and technology that helped the visually impaired baristas do their work. Students smelled different coffee beans and guessed which type was being used in the demo.

Later on, Toby, a staff member of Brew Heart, shared his personal journey of how he came to be visually impaired. Toby talked of his difficulties with navigating and coming to terms with his disability and how working in the coffee shop had helped him rejoin the community. His story inspired many students and there was plenty of time for students to ask questions about the different aspects of work and life for Toby. He introduced Chen Chen, his guide dog and the Year 3s were so excited to see him and the demonstration of how Chen Chen helps Toby to navigate around obstacles.

We ended the day with a wonderful activity where students reflected on their own personal challenges and hopes. Students of Year 3 made UISG proud with their excellent behaviour, their attention to the presentations and their thoughtful questions. It was a wonderful and illuminating experience!

Year 3 Team