Farmer Time Becomes Independent Charity, Expands Impact on Young People’s Understanding of Agriculture

UK. December 20th, 2024 – Farmer Time, a pioneering program dedicated to educating young people about the agricultural industry and the journey from farm to fork, is thrilled to announce its official recognition as an independent charity following a successful partnership between Village Farm and LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming). 

The UK government has approved this transition, allowing Farmer Time to enhance further its mission of inspiring the next generation about the vital role of farming in our society.

 

Founded by Tom Martin on his family farm in England, Farmer Time has leveraged the power of digital communication to connect classrooms with farmers across the UK. Through live video chats on platforms like Zoom and Skype, children engage directly with their matched farmers, asking questions, sharing knowledge, and gaining a real-time understanding of the challenges and rewards of modern farming. Notably, a recent 2024 survey showed 100% of participating farmers and teachers have expressed their enjoyment of the program, underscoring its significant impact.

 

“Every single call. The way I make the children’s day by showing them the farm and they may never set foot on one in their life,” shared one participating farmer, highlighting the unique experience Farmer Time provides.

 

In addition to its recent charity status, Farmer Time is excited to welcome two new board members: Dr. John Viney and Dr. Kirstie McAdoo. 

 

Results driven and innovation-focused Leaderverse Founder, Dr. John Viney built one of the UK’s top-performing companies [Sunday Times]. He’s now using that expertise to scale Farmer Time’s mission, connecting classrooms and farmers in a way that empowers young minds to understand the future of food, farming, and sustainability.

 

Dr. Kirstie McAdoo has dedicated the past 15 years to education, agricultural research, and sustainable food systems. Currently serving as an Adjunct Professor at University College Dublin, she lectures on sustainable food practices and actively works with the Department of Agriculture to promote women in farming. Dr. McAdoo is also instrumental in reshaping the Ag Science curriculum for post-primary students.

Farmer Time has proven to be a valuable educational tool, with 62% of classes discussing 'Healthy Eating,' 48% exploring 'Careers,' and 88% engaging in conversations about 'the Environment.' A teacher involved in the program remarked: “Building a relationship with our paired farmer and seeing the changes the farm undergoes across the year,” emphasising the lasting connections formed through Farmer Time.

 

As Farmer Time embarks on this new chapter as an independent charity, it remains committed to inspiring, engaging, and educating young minds about the dynamic world of agriculture. With the support of dedicated farmers and educators, Farmer Time is poised to expand its reach and continue making a difference in the lives of young people across the UK.

 

For more information about Farmer Time and how to get involved, please visit www.farmertime.uk