Immersive and experiential farm visits for young people from Plymouth

The Pitch

Problem statement

In the UK, children living in areas of high deprivation and densely populated communities have limited access to green spaces and spend very little time, if any, in the countryside. But we know that learning outdoors helps children to do better at school, develop more meaningful relationships, and grow mental resilience. In addition, last year saw a 37% increase in child mental health referrals following the isolation, uncertainty and disruption of the pandemic. We exist to ensure all children can experience the health and development benefits of nature and the environment, no matter where they are from or what their background, because poverty of experience is harming children’s lives.

Solution

We welcome children from urban areas to our farms, and away from barriers that increase the deprivation in which they navigate their childhood, to spend a life-enhancing week with us. Children experience personal growth and develop transferrable life skills through food, farming and outdoor learning activities that connect them with each other and the natural world, supporting good mental health and physical wellbeing. This academic year we will host eight Plymouth primary schools; schools which are in the top 30% most deprived areas in England, have high number of pupils receiving free schools meals and located in built-up urban areas. Your funding will help fund 1 week for 35 children.

Why are we best placed to deliver?

With 40 years delivery experience & 100,000 beneficiaries our farm teams are exceptionally well placed to deliver farm residentials for children who will most benefit from a visit. They plan activities to meet the needs of the school & with a 'no child is left behind' ethos we ensure inclusivity & a level playing field for all. "The children have learned more on this visit than in a year in the classroom. They are fully engaged & children who have complex needs have thrived. I have been leading residential for 30 years & visited many different places with groups of children. I have never been on a residential which has had such an amazing impact on the children.' Headteacher, Whitefield.

Focus Areas

Delivery plan

Budget breakdown

Beneficiaries

35 people

Expected impact

Children leave us with improved independence, resilience, and collaborative skills, they have better engagement with physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. Children exposed to nature have better concentration and self-discipline, improve their reasoning and observation skills, are better at working in teams and understand the impact of their actions. A week on the farm provides children with the opportunity to take on meaningful responsibilities, overcome fears and gain lasting confidence from the progress they make as they become increasingly skilled farmers. For children with limited opportunities to explore the countryside, the impact of their stay is life-enhancing, horizons are broadened as they become more connected to the countryside and the source of the food they eat. ‘I've learnt (about) people who have cows, and our food comes from them and the chickens and all the other animals, I thought it came from the supermarket not the actual animals.’ Year 6 pupil, Plymouth

Track record

With over 40 years of delivery and 100,000 beneficiaries we have an exemplary track record in making a difference through food, farming and outdoor learning for children and young people who need it most. Reflection from Plymouth's Victoria Road and Keyham Barton primary schools lead teachers on January 2023 visits demonstrates this. ‘I was delighted to see children who had been anxious about leaving mum thrive all week, being positive, respectful, and enthusiastic with all tasks and staff. It's been great to see children who struggle in the classroom have the chance to learn new skills that suit them and encouraged them to keep trying and having a go.’ ‘I saw teamwork, patience and positive interactions between children who don't usually associate with each other. Resilience was high and they shared the workload in a positive way. Every member of the team had their own excellent approach to managing behaviour and encouraging children to be the best version of themselves.'

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