Children from schools across Britain are learning more about the farming industry and how their favourite dairy products get from farm to fridge, thanks to a partnership between Müller UK & Ireland, Co-op Academies Trust, and The Country Trust.
Working together, Müller provides assistance to both Trusts to help pupils from areas of high social and economic disadvantage better understand the UK food supply system, and to showcase the farming industry to a younger generation.
This is achieved through offering hands-on Farm Discovery experiences on local dairy farms, bringing food and farming experience alive for young people.
The partnership forms a key part of Müller’s Stronger Communities strategy as part of its wider Sustainability Action Plan, promoting education, confidence and connection for school pupils within their local communities, while also introducing young people to the opportunities within the farming sector.
Through the visits, children gain an understanding of how dairy forms part of a healthy, balanced diet, and how milk collected on their local farms is an integral ingredient in their favourite Müller products.
Twelve schools will be supported across the course of the year, with some Co-op Academy Schools in the North of England visiting Co-op aligned dairy farms, gaining first-hand experience of how milk from the area makes its way to local Co-op store fridges.
Richard Collins, Director of Agriculture at Müller, said: “At Müller, we believe that understanding where food comes from is a vital part of building stronger, more connected communities.
“Through our partnership with The Country Trust and Co-op Academies Trust, we’re proud to help bring the journey of milk to life for children across Britain, especially those who might not otherwise have the chance to visit a working farm.
“These experiences not only highlight the importance of dairy in a balanced diet, but also create a deeper appreciation for the farmers and local supply chains that make it all possible.”
Earlier this month, pupils from Co-op Academy Clarice Cliff school visited farmer Paul Frith on Heath Farm in Knutsford.
Kate Millington, Farm Discovery Co-ordinator with The Country Trust, said: “It has been a pleasure to lead our dairy farm school visit programme this year. With support from Müller and several dedicated farmers, we have been able to offer valuable and unique learning opportunities to primary children across the region.
“The pupils we work with have often never visited a working farm before, with many also not having seen the wider countryside outside of their local area. I am sure that these experiences will have a great impact on their understanding of the world around them, and where their food comes from”.
Chris Tomlinson, CEO of Co-op Academies Trust, said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Müller to provide more unique experiences for our pupils. These farm visits are a powerful way to bring learning to life, helping children better understand healthy eating and sustainability.
“Many of our pupils wouldn’t otherwise have this kind of hands-on experience so we’re incredibly proud to be part of a partnership that is broadening horizons and giving the students positive memories in our schools.”
