We Have Had A Busy Summer
The education team have been busy all through the summer holidays with our HAF (Holidays and Food Program) delivering summer themed sessions here at the farm.
We delivered 29 sessions, engaged with nearly 700 participants and had family fun with our Camp Out Cook Outs, families worked together building dens in the forest at our SEND sessions and there was lots of fun on the farm with our drop off sessions. But there isn’t time to take a rest, we are busy organising our HAF Christmas celebration week due the first week in January, so watch this space for more news.
The New Education Year
We had an exciting kick start to the new academic school year during September offering 14 Fully Funded, Farming Fortnight sessions to schools after the popularity of those delivered in June. Pupils had fun spending time with our animals and finding out about them, exploring the importance of worms and why hedgerows are important to farms and wildlife. The Farming Fortnight sessions are fully funded by the Countryside Stewardship Grant providing the opportunity for schools and pupils, a glimpse into farming life and find out where food comes from.
Returning Schools
Schools taking part in our rolling programmes have returned to continue their learning with us and we have had a new school join us this term. These rolling programmes enable pupils to gain hands on experience and evidence for their AQA qualifications while following the changing seasons on the farm and the different jobs that they bring.
We’re Expanding Our Offer
We are excited to announce that we are adding to our education programmes. We still have our school favourites: –
The Great Outdoor Challenge is being adding to, so if you are looking for Team building, River studies or Forest skills our Education Team can take the stress away by delivering a programme to suit your class needs.
What schools say!
So you’ve heard it from us but what do our visitors say. We wanted to share with you some of the comments schools and families have made
Hawthorn Primary – Funded Farming Fortnight
“The children and staff were completely enthused throughout our visit. The team were so approachable and friendly making sure our day was action packed. We were all thrilled whilst feeding the animals and having the opportunity to milk a goat! An excellent trip at no cost we cant thank you enough!!!!!!”
King George V – The Great Outdoor Challenge
“Great day had by all- children loved the scavenger hunt and were engaged all the way to the farm. Feeding the animals was a great experience – some children learnt a lot about themselves and were very proud to have done something they were anxious about. Great to see them working together on the rope course to improve their teamwork and co-operation. Thanks for the great day.”
Albert Pritchard, Wood Green Primary – Welly to Belly plus butter making
“Thank you for a lovely day. Lots of children experienced something new today and all particularly enjoyed the butter making! and meeting the animals.”
Sandwell Community School – Farmer for the day, Rolling Program
“The student’s confidence, thinking skills, communication skills have improved. Their knowledge of Health and Safety, the awareness of this around others and on site is communicated well. The environment is so good for their Health and wellbeing, they are thriving.”
Halesbury – Farmer for the day, Rolling Program AQA
“We have had a fantastic day. Fun, informative and educational. Staff are excellent with the children. Able to deliver the lesson at an appropriate level. Thank You!”
For further information regarding our educational offers, creating a program perfect for your class, our rolling programmes and would like to receive our newsletters or further information please email your name, and contact details to learn_well@sandwell.gov.uk .
