School curriculum needs to foster children's connection to farming and food, MP says

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart said the school syllabus must be designed to create a learning experience which 'cultivates an understanding and appreciation of farming', while 'developing a connection with nature and quality, nutritious food'

Chris Brayford
clock • 6 min read
Carla Lockhart, DUP MP, said: "Our food does not come from local supermarket shelves, it comes from family-owned farms who work round the clock in all weathers to comply with stringent animal welfare, crop and environmental standards. Early intervention is key, and by putting agriculture and food production firmly on the curriculum, young children will learn exactly where their food comes from."
Image:

Carla Lockhart, DUP MP, said: "Our food does not come from local supermarket shelves, it comes from family-owned farms who work round the clock in all weathers to comply with stringent animal welfare, crop and environmental standards. Early intervention is key, and by putting agriculture and food production firmly on the curriculum, young children will learn exactly where their food comes from."

Inspiring and nurturing children to appreciate the value of farming and the environment in the curriculum could help them make better informed decisions to eat more healthy and nutritious food, politicians...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Education

OPINION: Avoiding the diversity conversation holds farming back

OPINION: Avoiding the diversity conversation holds farming back

Digital editor Emily Ashworth explores the idea of diversity, and questions why we are sometimes too quick to shut the conversation down

clock 11 May 2026 • 2 min read
Dame Prue Leith on mission to place food education at heart of school curriculum

Dame Prue Leith on mission to place food education at heart of school curriculum

A report said cooking has gradually slipped from schools' timetable for decades. Is it now time to change that and help inspire kids to love food and cooking again?

Chris Brayford
clock 10 May 2026 • 3 min read
OPINION: I took some farmers into my local school and saw the children come alive

OPINION: I took some farmers into my local school and saw the children come alive

Digital editor Emily Ashworth took two farmers into her local school, and found that when given the chance, children can really thrive when it comes to learning about farming

clock 27 April 2026 • 2 min read