51AVÊÓÆµ

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.

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

Ìý

More on Education

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
OPINION: Gov changes to school meals is half the battle – farming education is the other

OPINION: Gov changes to school meals is half the battle – farming education is the other

It is nice to see this Government pledge to make school food healthier. But what will really make the biggest impact is further education around food and farming, says digital editor Emily Ashworth

clock 20 April 2026 • 3 min read
OPINION: New entrant or fifth generation – why is the farming education conversation so divisive?

OPINION: New entrant or fifth generation – why is the farming education conversation so divisive?

Why should people be excluded from the farming industry? This week digital editor Emily Ashworth talks about the need for constructive conversation about education and careers

clock 13 April 2026 • 2 min read