Bennetts Farm

Event: Bennetts Farm  

Number of pupils attending: 14                                                                                                                   

Aim of the activity

Year 5 and 6 pupils recently visited Bennetts Farm to learn about the wide range of careers available within the farming and agricultural industry. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for students to see how a working farm operates and to discover the skills needed for different jobs.

Increase employer engagement

The workings of a workplace visit

Raise students’ aspirations

Raising industry sectors profile and appeal to students

Linking Gatsby Benchmark 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

Activity

During the visit, pupils explored many areas of the farm and learned about:

• Caring for farm animals and ensuring their welfare.
• Growing crops and understanding the farming cycle.
• Using machinery and technology to support farm work.
• Managing a farm business and selling produce.
• Looking after the environment and promoting sustainability.

Students were surprised to discover that farming involves much more than working outdoors. Modern farms rely on science, technology, engineering, business management, and customer service skills.

Activity

Throughout the visit it highlighted a variety of career pathways including,

• Farmer
• Agricultural
• Veterinarian
• Farm Manager
• Environmental Conservation Officer
• Machinery technician
• Business and Marketing Manager
•  

They spoke about a range of skills required to become a successful employee

• Teamwork
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving abilities
• Resilience and determination
• Practical skills
• An interest in science and the environment

Impact of activity

The careers visit helped pupils connect classroom learning to real-life jobs and increased their awareness of career opportunities within agriculture and rural industries. It also encouraged them to think about the qualifications, skills, and personal qualities needed for future employment. However, they are far from thinking about post 16 options, these opportunities allow for the students to begin to think about their future and begin to set stones in place.

Bennetts Farm provided an engaging and informative experience that inspired pupils to consider careers they may not have previously known about and demonstrated the important role farming plays in our communities and economy.

Quotes from the students.

   “I didn’t realise how much technology is used on farms. It was exciting to see the machinery in action.”

“I enjoyed learning about how animals are cared for and what vets do on a farm.” “The visit helped me understand that farming offers many different job opportunities.”