Growing Schools

What is Growing Schools? 

In 2001 FCFCG was commissioned by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES), now called the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) to research the links that exist between schools, farming and gardening.

This government initiative offers a huge range of resources aimed at supporting teachers to make use of the outdoor classroom. Visit the Growing Schools website at www.teachernet.gov.uk/growingschools

 

Aims of Growing Schools

Encourage schools to increase the level of pupil participation in learning which uses farms/growing as a resource, and preferably by direct hands on experience.

Offer teachers easier access to information, teaching resources and professional development opportunities.

Identify good practice examples that illustrate: how commonly perceived difficulties can be overcome; how farms/growing can be used effectively as a teaching tool across the curriculum at each Key Stage; the benefits of farms/growing in terms of achievement/other outcomes; effective support structures.

Encourage teachers to explore a wider range of teaching and learning approaches so that they and their pupils have a more challenging and exciting experience.

 

Further information

Growing Schools Project Manager
DCFS
C30, 3rd Floor Sanctuary Buildings
Great Smith Street, London SW1P 3BT
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Further details on the availability of farms across the UK that are open to school groups are now available from the home page of the Growing Schools website.