Children take part in Farm and Country education in Cornwall

Jointly organised by the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association (RCAA) and the Cornwall Food and Farming Group, the educational event gives hands-on, interactive experiences about agriculture and food production.  

With help from food producers, organisations and farmers from across the county, around 50 exhibits showcased areas such as vegetable planting, machinery, butchery, cheese making, recycling, and much more.  

Children learning about food (Image: Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association)

The event was also populated with live animals including beef and dairy cattle, lambs, piglets, and even pygmy goats.

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This year, more than 1,500 school children participated in many agricultural-related activities, learning how to milk cows, make pasties, and even have a go at sheep auctioneering.  

Children learning about farming machinery (Image: Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association)

The event is made possible thanks to the 200 local volunteers who give up their time, running exhibits, stewarding, and as school hosts, to ensure every child gets the most out of the experience.  

It took place on March 22 and 23 this year.

RCAA’s education co-ordinator Emma Parkyn said: “It is more important than ever that children understand and appreciate where and how their food is produced, and the importance that agriculture as a whole plays within Cornwall, and we hope to bridge that gap with the activities and knowledge this event provides.

Children planting seedlings (Image: Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association)

“Farm and Country Days really is a testament to all the incredible volunteers, organisation and sponsors, without which this event simply could not happen, and demonstrates the passion and integrity within the farming and agricultural industry.”  

Farm and Country Days will return for another two-day event in March 2024.