Over 1,300 Hertfordshire primary school children experienced a day of hands-on learning and agricultural discovery at the Hertfordshire Agricultural Society’s fourth annual Schools Food and Farming Day.
The event was made even more special by a visit from Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh GCVO, who spent time speaking with children, volunteers, and exhibitors, and showed great interest in the educational activities on offer.
Throughout the day, children took part in a wide range of engaging experiences that helped them understand where their food comes from and the importance of British farming. From digging for potatoes in the soil to creating colourful fruit and vegetable kebabs, pupils were encouraged to explore the farm-to-fork journey in fun and memorable ways. A live butchery demonstration offered a rare insight into how meat is prepared, and tractor and trailer rides gave the children the chance to see the working countryside from a farmer’s perspective.
Other highlights included making smoothies using pedal power, learning how to churn butter by hand, and taking home tomato plants grown from food waste. A live sheep shearing demonstration and opportunities to meet farm animals up close helped deepen the children’s understanding of livestock and sustainable farming.
The day was supported by more than 120 volunteers and exhibitors, all passionate about food education and rural life. Their time and expertise, along with the generosity of sponsors, helped make the event a huge success.
Chair of the Hertfordshire Agricultural Society, Stuart Roberts, said: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see young people so engaged and excited about food, farming, and the natural world. The feedback from schools has been fantastic, and we are proud to offer such an engaging educational experience to local children.”
The Hertfordshire Agricultural Society remains committed to inspiring future generations through events like this and would like to thank everyone who played a part in making the day possible.
