Pupils to learn about ‘farm to fork’ food journey
Essex Schools Food and Farming Day will be held at ARU Writtle on Tuesday, 23 June
School pupils at last year's Essex Schools Food and Farming Day at ARU Writtle
More than 3,000 schoolchildren from across Essex will visit ARU Writtle later this month for one of the county’s largest educational farming events.
The Essex Schools Food and Farming Day will take place on Tuesday, 23 June, with 3,150 pupils from 75 primary schools expected to explore how food is produced and the role of agriculture in everyday life.
Organised by the Essex Agricultural Society and hosted by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), the annual, hands-on event aims to give young people a deeper understanding of where their food comes from, as well as inspire interest in environmental sustainability and careers in the rural sector.
Throughout the day, children will take part in interactive activities across six themed zones: Livestock; Machinery; Food; Crops; Countryside and Environment; and Rural Safety and STEM. These will feature live demonstrations, opportunities to meet farm animals, and displays of modern agricultural technology.
Pupils will be able to watch heavy machinery such as tractors and combine harvesters in action, learn about cutting-edge techniques in food production, and sample locally grown produce. The event is supported by more than 150 farmer volunteers who help bring the experience to life.
A popular feature of the day is the schools’ scarecrow competition. This year’s theme is “Traditional Scarecrows”, encouraging pupils to showcase classic countryside creativity through their designs.
“We are delighted to again be working with Essex Agricultural Society to host the annual Essex Food and Farming Day. It is a fantastic way of helping connect young people with the countryside and highlighting the journey of food, from farm to fork, while promoting healthy lifestyles and awareness of sustainability.”
Professor Roderick Watkins, Vice Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)
“We are really looking forward to welcoming schoolchildren back to the showground in Writtle for this year’s event. The showground will be filled with exhibitors in our six zones and over 150 farmer volunteers, and we can’t wait to see thousands of children – and dozens of scarecrows – enjoying the Essex Schools Food & Farming Day.”
Event Chairman Annabelle Rout