Groups from Hodge Hill Girls School and Bishop Challoner Catholic College in Kings Heath recently participated in an enriching experience organized by the NFU Education team at the LAMMA event in Birmingham. This initiative, which builds on the success of previous years, aims to bridge the gap between urban youth and the agricultural sector, showcasing the myriad career opportunities available within farming, engineering, science, and technology.
On January 16, over 30 Year 9 students engaged in interactive workshops and a scavenger hunt that led them through the exhibition. The activities were designed to provide insights into modern farming practices and highlight the latest technological advancements in agriculture. Farmer Rachel Hallos, NFU Vice President, emphasized the importance of introducing young people from diverse backgrounds to the agricultural industry, stating, “Many young people, especially those from more city and urban areas, are disconnected from farming and food production.” By presenting the innovation and dedication inherent in modern farming, the initiative aims to inspire the next generation to explore careers in this vital sector.
The event also featured interactions with NFU Farmers for Schools ambassadors, who play a crucial role in connecting students with real-world agricultural practices. Sponsored by AGCO, a leader in agricultural machinery and precision farming technology, the tour offered students a glimpse into the exciting career paths available in agriculture. Sophie Jackson-Holgate from Agriconnect noted the significance of such events in providing students from non-farming backgrounds with the opportunity to discover potential career and learning opportunities in the industry.
AGCO’s Ash Briggs highlighted the importance of fostering the next generation of agricultural engineers, particularly as modern farming increasingly relies on technology. He noted that the company’s training team was eager to share knowledge on vehicle electrics, underscoring the industry’s need for skilled professionals.
The participation of city schoolchildren in events like LAMMA serves not only to educate but also to inspire a future workforce that understands the critical role of agriculture in society. By engaging students in this way, the initiative aims to cultivate a well-informed generation that values farming and its contributions to food production and environmental stewardship.
