Shaping the Future: Bringing Agriculture Education to Schools

In June 2024, the founder of Ecoewe, Olivia Shave, a former teacher, started a petition to include agriculture in the national curriculum. 

Most children lack an understanding of where their food comes from or the broader impact of agriculture. While they may realise that food is grown, they often only see it as something bought from supermarkets. Including agriculture in the curriculum would benefit both students and the agricultural sector. 

How does it impact agriculture? 

The next generation of farmers is vital to the future of the industry. Raising awareness about agriculture can inspire children to explore it as a career or, at the very least, become more familiar with the sector. 

How does this benefit children? 

Human activities are having a profound impact on the environment. Introducing agriculture in schools would teach children to make informed choices that support environmental preservation. Learning about food production, sustainability, and caring for the planet is essential, as these topics affect everyone throughout their lives. Additionally, understanding food production could improve their eating habits and encourage a preference for healthier, higher-quality food.

Many young people are interested in joining the agricultural industry but struggle to get started due to a lack of exposure. Introducing agriculture in schools could make a significant difference, equipping future farmers with the knowledge and inspiration to pursue farming courses and gain hands-on experience.

Claire Mackenzie, the visionary behind the documentary Six Inches of Soil, is working with Olivia to improve education. 

Farmers Guardian's online editor, Emily Ashworth, expressed her support for Olivia's mission to highlight the importance of teaching children about food, farming, and the land. She emphasised that this initiative goes beyond promoting careers in agriculture; it aims to improve health, foster environmental awareness, and highlight the collective role we play in sustainability through our daily choices.

Bringing rural topics into the classroom opens up endless possibilities, and Farmers Guardian's campaigns capture this vision perfectly, shining a light on farming’s vital role in society.

Farming is important to everyone, and we need to spread awareness of this. Without farmers, there is no food. We not only need to support the next generation of farmers but also our current farmers.