The Year 5 and 6 pupils from Countess Gytha Primary School in Yeovil, Somerset, were invited into Number 10 to explore the world of agriculture as part of the ‘Lessons at 10’ series, an initiative organised by the Prime Minister’s wife, Akshata Murty.
The lesson introduced the children to British food and farming through NFU Education’s Farming STEMterprise project and challenged them to invent their own finger foods using a range of British ingredients. And the challenge didn’t stop there – the children also had to market their creations and explain the many benefits of using homegrown British produce.
Working in teams, they were supported by an NFU Education Farmers for Schools ambassador, who offered firsthand insights into how they produce high quality, climate-friendly, nutritious food. Hailing from Lancashire to Sussex, they were able to share their expert knowledge of their sectors in dairy, arable, horticulture and sheep farming.
NFU Education Manager Josh Payne said: “This event provided an exceptional learning opportunity for these children to understand the importance of the vital world of British farming. It’s a brilliant programme, and it’s wonderful to see Ms Murty recognising the value of teaching key STEM subjects through the lens of food and farming.
“It’s important to encourage young people and make agriculture relevant and interesting so they can become more involved in the countryside and rural areas as they grow older.
“It’s been great to run this session and hopefully it has not only excited the children about food and cooking, but also got them thinking about where ingredients come from and the quality work that goes into their production. This experience is also a chance to meet real-life farmers, which is a fantastic way to bridge the gap between the field and the plate.
“I’m sure this ‘Lessons at 10’ event will leave a lasting impact on these children, and we hope to inspire them to appreciate the importance of British produce.”
Ms Murty said: “It was wonderful to welcome pupils from Countess Gytha Primary School to Downing Street today for a special farming and food Lessons at 10 event.
“It’s so important for children to connect with where our food comes from and experience great British produce. Thank you to everyone for coming and highlighting why we should back British farming.”