At Herdy, we believe that supporting the education of young minds about the world around them, particularly in our rural communities, is vital. This summer, we had the pleasure of sponsoring the Westmorland Agricultural Society’s bi-annual Farm Open Days via The Herdy Fund. A grant of £1,000 was provided to help bring this educational experience to hundreds of primary-aged children across the South Lakes and Furness areas.
The Farm Open Days were hosted this year by the Mason family at Heaves Farm in Levens. The initiative began back in 2007 and has become a highlight of the WCAS calendar. Offering schoolchildren a rare opportunity to step into the world of farming. The days are designed to connect young learners with the origins of the food on their plates while instilling an appreciation for sustainable farming practices and the agricultural landscape.
Marion Bell, the Education Co-ordinator for WCAS said: “Our farm Open Days are a unique experience for Primary School pupils to visit a working farm where they are shown the various elements that take place to produce the food they eat.”
For two days, the children were immersed in hands-on activities that illustrated the different aspects of farming life. From witnessing the shearing of sheep to learning how that wool is spun into yarn, the pupils were able to see, touch, and engage with the processes that form the backbone of UK farming.
One of the most magical moments occurred when a group of lucky children witnessed the birth of a calf, an experience that left a lasting impression. In another part of the farm, children watched eggs hatch in the poultry section and even had the chance to enjoy freshly made eggy bread using eggs from the farm.
The day was not just about the animals; the children were also shown the importance of sustainable practices. They participated in making compost and seed bombs. Embarked on a woodland walk where they learned about the vital role of bees in our ecosystem. These experiences sparked curiosity, leading to a flurry of questions. It was a joy to see their enthusiasm and hear comments like, “The farm visit was amazing and our children haven't stopped talking about it.”
Over 100 volunteers and demonstrators dedicated their time to ensure the Farm Open Days were a resounding success. Stations were set up across the farm to demonstrate both traditional and modern farming methods. Children had the chance to see the dairy cows being milked and explore technological advancements in agriculture. Such as the veterinary lambing simulator and automated sheep run.
The Farm Open Days are a testament to the WCAS’s commitment to educating future generations. At Herdy, we are proud to have played a part in the Farm Open Days. Supporting local children in learning about farming practices not only strengthens our rural communities but also ensures that the knowledge and appreciation for our agricultural heritage continue to thrive.
