The third annual Vineyard School, presented by the Vineyard Workers Development NPC, was held from 6–9 May 2025 at Klein Joostenberg. The school brought together vineyard workers for an intensive, hands-on training programme aimed at building skills, deepening knowledge, and strengthening industry connections.
The programme forms part of an ongoing commitment to continuous learning and professional development within the wine industry. Recognising the critical role vineyard workers play in the success of South African wine, the Vineyard School offers them access to leading industry experts and the latest insights in vineyard management.
The 2025 edition delivered a high-impact, hands-on programme tailored to the needs of those working directly in the vineyards. Topics ranged from soil, pest and disease control, terroir overview, climate change, vineyard management to labour relations and many more.
Classroom sessions were marked by high engagement, with learners actively participating in discussions. The open and collaborative environment also fostered valuable peer-to-peer learning, as attendees shared their own experiences and challenges.
Rosa Kruger, Sheldon van Wyk and Nadia Hefer from the Vineyard Workers Development NPC
Outside the classroom, the Vineyard School provided a valuable networking platform, allowing vineyard workers to connect with peers from other regions and build meaningful relationships within the broader viticultural community.
The Vineyard School was made possible with the support of Vinimark and the Trophy Wine Show, and featured expert insights from a range of respected industry speakers.
The Vineyard School 2025 reaffirmed the importance of ongoing skills development and collaboration, leaving participants better equipped and more connected within the South African wine industry.
For any information contact info@vineschool.co.za.
