The six and seven-year-olds, from Holy Rosary Primary School, combined their science learning with English lessons by writing and sending paintings to people who work with and care for animals.
After receiving a selection of the letters and artwork, the NFU connected the school with its Farmers for Schools programme and arranged for NFU member and Farmers for Schools ambassador John Alpe to visit the class.
Connecting to the world of farming
“It’s important that children have the opportunity to connect with the people who produce their food, care for livestock and manage the countryside.”
NFU Farmers for Schools ambassador John Alpe
During the visit, John, who is a livestock farmer from Clitheroe, Lancashire, spoke to the children about life on the farm. He talked about how high animal welfare standards are central to British food production, helping bring their learning to life and giving pupils the opportunity to ask questions about farming.
John, who is a Lancashire NFU member, said: “When I read the children’s letters, I could see how much thought and effort had gone into them.
“It was a pleasure to visit the school and share what farming is really like.
“The pupils were enthusiastic, curious and keen to learn. It’s important that children have the opportunity to connect with the people who produce their food, care for livestock and manage the countryside.”
‘Truly memorable experience’
Year 2 class teacher Michael Richmond said: “I’m incredibly proud of the children.
“They put so much care and effort into their letters and artwork, and their genuine curiosity about animals really shone through.
“We hoped they might receive a few replies, but we never imagined it would lead to experiences like this.
“John’s visit to Holy Rosary gave the children the chance to learn directly from someone with real expertise, and seeing their excitement and confidence as they asked questions made it a truly memorable experience.”
A pupil said: “I think I’d like being a farmer because I like animals and caring for them.”
Enthusiasm shone through
NFU Education Coordinator Cathy Shields said the children’s enthusiasm really shone through in their letters and artwork.
She said: “We were delighted by the response from our Farmers for Schools Ambassadors with over 30 farmers offering support.
“The Farmers for Schools ambassadors programme is a great scheme where farmers volunteer to visit schools to help bring learning to life and answer the pupils’ questions about farming and caring for animals.”
The visit demonstrates the value of the NFU’s Farmers for Schools programme, which connects farmers with schools to help children learn more about food, farming and the environment through real-life experiences.
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