Children from HDC Nursery in Newton Abbot have embarked on a series of hands-on visits to Abbrook Farm, which is operated by Teign School. This initiative has allowed young children, ranging from a few months old to preschool age, to engage directly with the outdoors while learning about animals and food production.
The partnership among HDC Nursery, Teign School, and Abbrook Farm facilitated these enriching experiences. During their visits, the children encountered geese, pigs, and other farm animals. They explored the fields and learned how various foods are cultivated, providing them with an immersive educational environment.
Strengthening Community Ties Through Education
Lucie Wagner, head of school at Teign School, emphasized the importance of collaborations with local organizations like Abbrook Farm. She stated, “Working closely with local organisations like Abbrook Farm is so valuable. They allow us to provide unique learning experiences while strengthening relationships between the school, families, and local businesses.”
Plans are underway for older students at Teign School, particularly those in Year 10 studying land-based subjects, to assist with future nursery visits. This initiative aims to foster connections between different age groups and promote intergenerational learning.
Matthew Shanks, chief executive of Education South West, also highlighted the significance of such partnerships. He remarked, “Partnerships like this bring education to life. By connecting nurseries with local resources such as Abbrook Farm, we provide children with meaningful experiences that develop both knowledge and a love for learning outside the classroom.”
This initiative not only enriches the educational experience of young children but also plays a vital role in building community relationships and encouraging a deeper understanding of local farming and food production. Through these experiences, children gain valuable insights into their environment and the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture.
