Inspiring more young people about careers in food and farming is easier for YFC members thanks to new and updated resources from LEAF Education and NFYFC.
The materials, which are now available for download from the Countryside Classroom, include Future Farming career options cards and a Growing Future booklet. The resources have been updated with support from ADM and can be used by YFC members in schools or at careers fairs to inspire young people about careers in food, farming and the land-based sector.
LEAF Education has also been hosting online training to support anyone who is keen to learn ways to deliver the materials and help with interaction at schools or public engagement at shows. The next course is due to take place on 27 June from 10am-12pm.
Jess Radnor from Woolhope YFC in Herefordshire took part in the first training session and believes education about food provenance is essential.
“It is something I feel quite strongly about! It is so important for it to be talked about and included, even if it’s just through guest speakers at schools or at career fairs,” said Jess.
“This training was valuable for gaining skills to help educate and advocate for young people who potentially want to learn more about it and find a gateway into the industry. This could even be in a role that they might not have known even existed.”
The online training was for two hours and used interactive tools, such as Kahoot, to aid learning and share important statistics. Jess took part in breakout rooms with other participants too.
“It was helpful to have these small group discussions and to hear other people’s experiences and how they structure their events for the next generation,” said Jess who plans to use the training and materials to engage more with schools and advocate for the industry.
“The updated resources are incredible! I have ordered a paper copy to use when I attend events to show what careers are out there in the industry,” said Jess.
The training taught Jess to plan and built key messages into the workshop – but to also be ready to adapt to different audiences who may respond and engage differently. With more training sessions planned, Jess encourages other YFC members to attend.
“It was a great session. There was a variety of backgrounds attending, from people who regularly carry out the events discussed to people who haven't done an event yet and would like to. There is always more to learn, not only from the speakers but also the other skilled people in the room.
“Thank you to LEAF and NFYFC for the resources and time taken to produce and conduct this event,” said Jess.
Hundreds of schools up and down the country will be delivering fun farming themed activities to help students explore the world of agriculture during LEAF Education’s Farming Fortnight at the beginning of June.
YFC members can book a free place on LEAF's next online course on Friday, 27 June from 10am until 12 noon.
To download materials from the Countryside Classroom, visit here.
