More than 470 children from 14 schools across the county attended the inaugural Bedfordshire Food, Farming & Sustainability Schools’ Day at Shuttleworth House in July.
Organised by the Bedfordshire Agricultural Education Foundation (BAEF), the event gave pupils the opportunity to learn where their food comes from and explore the county’s agricultural heritage.
Interactive activities
Pupils took part in a range of practical demonstrations, including bike-powered smoothie making, live beekeeping, bread making, livestock displays and farm machinery.
A sheep dog show also formed part of the event to give children a view of modern agricultural work.
The event was led by Kevin White and Blanche Walker, who drew on experience from delivering a similar project in Hertfordshire to bring together more than 43 exhibitors and experts.
Matthew Studdert-Kennedy, learning manager at the Shuttleworth Trust, supported the day alongside education guides, young volunteers from the Discovery Team, the BAEF committee and local volunteers.
Royal endorsement
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Susan Lousada, attended as guest of honour, noting the importance of providing young people with direct experience of farming and the countryside.
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Susan Lousada, said: “As we walked around the site together, it was obvious that everyone was enjoying themselves immensely. Every tent was alive with activity, curiosity and laughter.
“I spoke with a number of teachers, all of whom were full of praise for what had been created. They recognised not only the quality of the activities but also the enormous educational value of the experience.”
Future plans
Following the first event, organisers plan to make the Bedfordshire Food, Farming & Sustainability Schools’ Day an annual fixture, with dates for the second event to be confirmed.
The initiative aims to welcome more schools in future years to encourage appreciation of food production and highlight potential careers in agriculture and sustainability.
