Organized by education organization LEAF Education, Farming Fortnight runs from 6-17 June 2022. A wide range of engaging and informative national curriculum-linked resources and materials on farming, food production, and the natural environment will be downloaded by hundreds of schools for this two-week immersion into the world of farming. Topic sheets, lesson plans, case studies, and videos exploring different farming sectors will support teachers in delivering inspiring lessons and activities. Each day has its own farming theme and social media hashtag to encourage schools and students to share their learning experiences – these include #MilkingMonday, #WoollyWednesday, #FishyFriday, and #TastyTuesday! Schools and students are encouraged to share their learning experiences on social media.
LEAF Education Director of Education and Public Engagement, Carl Edwards, explained: “Farming Fortnight provides an exciting and inspiring platform to educate and connect children and young people with where their food comes from. This is of course vital for ensuring that they lead healthy, active lifestyles, and make the best food choices – all while capturing their enthusiasm, to connect with topical issues around climate change, healthy diets, wellbeing, and showcasing the range of future career opportunities available within the agricultural sector.
“Now in its fourth year, Farming Fortnight has seen continued growth in popularity and is an established date in the academic year. Since it was launched, we have seen over 3.5 million people engaging with Farming Fortnight through resources, videos, and on BBC’s Countryfile. We hope that 2022 is our biggest year yet with even more schools and young people taking part and enjoying our fantastic resources!”
Farming Fortnight is supported by Farming Minister Victoria Prentis, who said: “Farmers produce the food we eat and care for the environment that we rely on. Farming Fortnight is an excellent initiative, and I passionately believe that we should teach children about the work that our farmers do. In the next fortnight, thousands of young children will engage with food and farming in a positive and interactive way, and I urge as many schools as possible to take part.”
Farming Fortnight was developed as a result of LEAF’s Pioneering teenager research and in collaboration with staff and students from Brockhill Park Performing Arts College.
Farming Fortnight runs from 6-17 June. It is free for schools to get involved, and all campaign resources are available from www.countrysideclassroom.org.uk/farmingfortnight