LEAF Education is launching a new initiative to inspire young people about farming, food production and the natural environment.
Farming Fortnight, which will run from3-14 June this year, has been developed by the agricultural education organisation in partnership withBrockhill Park Performing Arts Collegein Kent.
Hundreds of primary and secondary schools across the UK will shine light on farming, what it delivers, and the various career opportunities available in the sector.
A wide range of engaging national curriculum linked resources and materials have been developed for schools to download, such as topic sheets, lesson plans, case studies and videos exploring different farming sectors.
Each day of the campaign will have its own farming theme and accompanying social media hashtag, including fruit and vegetable production (#TastyTuesday) and careers in farming (#FutureFarming). Schools and students will be encouraged to share their learning experiences on social media.
LEAF Education’s director of education and public engagement, Carl Edwards, explained: “We want to enable every child to leave school with experience, knowledge and understanding of food, farming and the natural environment.
“Farming Fortnight will provide a real focus for schools to engage young people with the important issues around farming and food production. If we are to see improvements in children's health, wellbeing and preparedness for adult life, and long-term solutions to global challenges of sustainability and food security, then education has to be at the centre.”
Donna Ashlee, Assistant Principal atBrockhill Park Performing Arts Collegeadded: “Having a dedicated two-week long focus on farming has real potential to inspire young minds, create opportunities and bring about real change to how future generations think about and engage in farming.”
Farming Fortnight is free for schools to get involved in. All campaign resources are availablefromwww.countrysideclassroom.org.uk/farmingfortnight.
