At Solsgirth Home Farm, we had the privilege of hosting a fantastic educational event in collaboration with the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET). This unique food and farming experience welcomed over 350 local school pupils for a hands-on day of learning about the importance of agriculture, sustainability, and the journey of food from farm to plate.
The event held on 24th September, showcased the diverse aspects of farming. Our young visitors got up close with the farm’s sheep, chicks, and pigs while learning about bees, grain, fruit, meat and dairy production at various interactive learning stations. This provided pupils with opportunities to explore the farm’s grain and seed processes, offering them valuable insight into the world of agriculture and the crucial role farmers play in food production.
Students got to meet the majestic Clydesdale horses, courtesy of Keystone Clydesdales. who brought along a traditional plough that would have been drawn by working horses in the past to prepare fields for future harvests. They also explored the evolution of tractors, viewing a vintage Fordson Dexta (from approximately 1961 at the front) alongside the more modern New Holland T6.180 (at the rear).
We were incredibly honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to Solsgirth Home Farm. As the Royal Patron of RHET, Princess Anne’s visit underscored the significance of educating the next generation on food sustainability and farming practices. She met with volunteers, organisers and pupils, and her presence added a sense of occasion to an already special day. Her continued support of RHET’s mission demonstrates the importance of fostering an understanding of Scotland’s agricultural heritage among young people.
One of the day’s interactive highlights was the “Zero Miles Smoothie” station, where pupils pressed apples from our orchard and used a smoothie bike to blend their own drinks. This activity not only engaged the children but also reinforced the concept of reducing food waste, as all the leftover produce could be composted.
Events like this, made possible through the dedication of RHET volunteers and generous support from the Scottish Government, are essential for encouraging early years’ learning about where food comes from. RHET’s on-farm experiences are offered free of charge, ensuring that as many young people as possible have the chance to engage with farming and sustainability.
By introducing young people to the realities of farming and food production, we are helping to create a generation that values sustainability, understands the challenges faced by farmers, and recognises the importance of local food sources.
At Solsgirth Home Farm, we are proud to contribute to this essential educational mission. We look forward to welcoming more visitors in the future and continuing our partnership with RHET to inspire the next generation of farmers, food producers, and environmental stewards.
Here’s to many more RHET days at Solsgirth Home Farm, continuing to spread agricultural education for future generations!
If you are a charity or school looking for an educational farm tour or other opportunities, please get in touch with us at admin@solsgirthhomefarm.com. We’d love to help inspire the next generation through hands-on learning!
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