Our Year 11 Business students stepped out of the classroom and into the world of industry with an exciting visit to the Glico ice cream production facility this week. What began as a learning excursion quickly became a hands-on exploration of real-world business operations, allowing pupils to see many of their textbook concepts come alive.
From the moment they entered the factory floor, pupils were immersed in the end-to-end manufacturing process. They observed how ingredients are blended in enormous stainless-steel tanks, how automated systems streamline production, and how the warehouse team prepares products for nationwide distribution. Seeing these processes firsthand helped them identify different production methods used by large-scale businesses.
The focus then shifted to quality management. Students were able to explore the difference between Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) by observing actual factory checkpoints. They even became part of the process themselves as official taste testers. This sparked lively discussion on how each approach ensures consistent standards in a competitive market.
The visit also connected directly to their marketing studies. Pupils learned about the origins of Glico, founded on the idea of “providing nutrition,” and explored how the company has built a long-lasting brand identity. The iconic logo of the running athlete – inspired by the original slogan, “One caramel bite, 300 meters” – offered a memorable lesson in messaging, branding, and emotional storytelling.
For pupils preparing for their IGCSE exams, this trip provided more than just memorable moments; it critically strengthened their ability to apply theory to real business scenarios.
As one student remarked afterwards: “It was like watching the textbook come to life right in front of us.”
A huge thank you to the Glico team for welcoming our students and offering such an engaging learning experience. At RSJ, we believe that education should extend beyond the classroom, and this week, our students got a real taste of what that looks like.
