Teachers, students and parents gathered at the school’s own vineyard on Tuesday and Wednesday to pick over five tonnes of grapes.

The grapes were planted over 10 years ago in partnership with Taylor’s Wines, of Auburn, as a learning experience for the students and as a fundraiser for the school.

Each year, an initial picking occurs to provide for the school’s Chemistry program, while a major secondary picking is sold to Taylor’s Wines.

The Year 11 Chemistry students will take part in all parts of the winemaking process, including adding all ingredients, testing the pH level, overseeing fermentation and bottling the wine later down the track.

Students also study for an accredited TAFE certificate in pruning, which some past students have used to gain employment.

Art students also have the chance to get involved – they have the opportunity to design the label for the wine bottle.

Gladstone High School Viticulture Coordinator, Stephen Bosch, said that this year’s picking had been very successful.

He said it was pleasing to see the whole staff and many students involved in the picking outside of school hours.

Mr Bosch said that school council had encouraged many parents to get involved, which helps to build a sense of cohesiveness and community spirit in the school.