Farm open days teach schoolchildren about practical farming

Schoolchildren from Merseyside and Suffolk have been learning more about practical farming and what is actually involved in producing the food on their plates.

The north-west event was held on well-known farmer Olly Harrison’s farm near Widnes, Cheshire, and organised by the National Sheep Association (NSA) Northern Region, attracting more than 350 schoolchildren from across the Merseyside area.

See also: New agriculture BTEC aims to open farming careers to pupils

Called the “Farm Gate to Dinner Plate” schools event, the day included a number of interactive workstations, covering a wide range of farming sectors and enabling the kids to meet both farmers and industry experts.

Activities included learning about modern farm machinery, following the journey of wheat to bread, and discovering the role of sheep farming through sheepdog demonstrations, shearing displays and education on the properties of wool.

© Wayne Hutchinson

The visiting pupils also had the chance to try their hand at moving pigs using pig boards, while AHDB experts explained the role red meat and dairy products play as part of a balanced diet.

NSA northern region manager Chris Adamson said: “The enthusiasm shown by the children throughout the day was remarkable.

“They asked thoughtful questions, got involved in every activity and left with a much better understanding of the farming industry and where their food comes from.”

Suffolk event

© Hollow Trees Farm

Further south, a total of 523 students from 13 schools across Suffolk attended the annual Food and Farming Student Day at Hollow Trees Farm at Semer, near Ipswich, rubbing shoulders with more than 50 farmers, scientists, engineers and agronomists.

Now in its 14th year, the event was run in association with the Suffolk Agricultural Association and funded by the Chadacre Agricultural Trust.

Designed for key stage 3 and 4 students, the day featured interactive exhibits, live demonstrations and careers-focused activities, helping young people explore roles spanning crop production and livestock management to engineering, food manufacturing, research and retail.

© Hollow Trees Farm

Charlie Sadler, a teacher at Culford School in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, said: “Many students arrive thinking agriculture is just driving a tractor, but the event opens their eyes to the huge range of careers available.

“As technology continues to transform the sector, it’s important that young people understand the opportunities that exist and how their skills could be applied within agriculture.”