Visit an organic farm

Visiting a farm, even just once, can be a life changing experience for a young person. 

We encourage schools and farms to set up a programme where small groups of pupils can visit the farm throughout the year. Pupils can talk at length with the farmers, get a closer look round the farm and to begin to understand the yearly cycle of work. 

A school picnic or harvest festival can provide an opportunity to bring larger numbers of pupils and community members to the farm to celebrate.

Open organic farms

Over recent years the Soil Association has been developing a network of open farms that welcome visits from the public and schools. We currently have over 100 farms on the network and are adding new farms all the time.
The network includes farms of all shapes and sizes, from walled gardens to large upland estates. All have a common interest in engaging with the public and schools through farm trails, guided walks, open days, school visits and farm shops/holiday accommodation. Many of the farms have a dedicated education officer and offer activities linked to the national curriculum.

Other reasons to visit an organic farm include...

• Research has shown that organic farms have greater numbers of insects, birds and wild flowers.
• The highest animal welfare standards mean that young people can learn how livestock can be reared with respect and compassion.
• The use of natural fertilisers such as clover and composted manure will help show how it is possible to farm with minimal external inputs thereby reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.
• By spending time on an organic farm, visitors can begin to understand that there are more sustainable ways of farming that work with nature rather than against it