Pupils at Friskney Church of England Primary School, part of the Lincoln Anglican Academy Trust (LAAT), enjoyed their first exciting educational adventure through Farm School at Askefield Project. Thanks to the generous funding of a local charity, each class will experience a full day at the farm, and these visits will continue every three weeks for the remainder of the academic year.
Askefield Project, a 13.5-acre smallholding in the heart of Friskney, offers a rich and diverse learning environment. The farm features paddocks, an orchard, a polytunnel, a nature pond, a sensory garden, a log cabin, and various farm buildings. During their visits, the children will engage in hands-on activities such as feeding animals, participating in daily care, and completing routine farm tasks. They will also learn to cultivate vegetables and flowers, care for the sensory garden, and help with landscaping projects around the site.
Tina Wood, Headteacher at Friskney Church of England Primary School, said:
“This is a wonderful opportunity for our children. It enables us to fulfil key elements of our curriculum in a new and engaging way, enhancing their learning experience beyond the classroom.”
The initiative is designed to provide pupils with invaluable life skills, nurture their connection with nature, and instil a sense of responsibility and teamwork. Through activities on the farm, students will develop practical knowledge and hands-on experience that will enrich their education and support their personal growth. Last week, children looked at the different types of sheep to support their science unit on evolution and inheritance. This included looking at the markings of the sire and the dam to predict what the lambs will look like. On a future visit, they will be able to see how correct they were!
Jackie Waters-Dewhurst Lincoln Anglican Academy Trust’s CEO added:
“This initiative highlights our commitment to providing innovative and enriching learning opportunities for our children. Farm School will not only enhance students’ education but also foster confidence, curiosity, and a love of the natural world.”
This Farm School experience promises to be a transformative opportunity for Friskney pupils, combining academic learning with real-world experiences to help shape well-rounded, resilient, and environmentally-conscious young learners.
