AHDB, (the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board) is offering farmers the chance to take part in a new project – the school farm visit support programme – giving farmers the tools they need to host school visits on farm.
The programme has thirty spaces and is open to livestock farmers from across England and Wales.
The initiative, in collaboration with LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) Education, aims to increase understanding and knowledge around farming and where food comes from by helping farmers deliver high-quality, safe, and memorable on-farm experiences for school children.
Educational and rewarding
AHDB head of education, Roz Reynolds, is looking forward to building on the success of the pilot scheme, which took place last year.
“We are really excited to be supporting even more farmers this year,” he said.
“We know from the pilot that sharing your knowledge and giving young people the opportunity to learn where their food comes through experiencing a working farm first-hand can be really rewarding and would encourage anyone who is looking to host school visits on their farm to find out more and apply.’’
Educational support
Eligible farmers can apply to receive fully funded CEVAS (Countryside Educational Visits Accreditation Scheme) training and will receive support on how to confidently deliver memorable school farm visits.
One-to-one support will also be available from LEAF's education specialists. And as part of the programme, a network of more experienced host farmers will be on hand to share their knowledge.
NFU Farmers for Schools programme
The NFU has more than 275 fully trained Farmers for Schools Ambassadors and they are already visiting schools around the country.
Our Farmers for Schools programme is aimed at helping secondary school children understand farming and agriculture better.
Through a 30-45 minute assembly in local secondary schools, the programme gives farmers a chance to showcase the value of British farming and correct any myths or misconceptions, as well as answer questions from students.
Visit NFU Farmers for Schools programme for more information and training dates.
Important opportunity
School farm visits support programme participant, Serena Colwill from Exford in Somerset, is passionate about inviting young people to her working farm.
“It not only benefits their mental health but also helps them understand about where their food comes from, how we care for our animals, and the environment. Each child should be given the opportunity to experience this,” said Serena.
‘’Overall, I had a fantastic experience with the School Farm Visits Support Programme. I would like to thank LEAF and AHDB for giving me the opportunity to enhance my knowledge in delivering educational farm visits on our farm at no cost. It has really helped me build on the success of my business.’’
How to apply
Visit: School farm visits | AHDB for information on making an applying for the programme. Applications will close on 1 August.
Further information
To find out more about the programme, AHDB is hosting a virtual Q&A event on 16 July. Register at School farm visits | AHDB.
