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50 Years of Farm Futures: Children Transform Lives
5 Nov
Summary
- Charity marked 50 years of giving urban youth farm experiences.
- Over 104,500 children learned about farming, nature, and food.
- More than 3,500 children visited farms in the 2024-25 year.
Farms for City Children is celebrating a significant milestone: 50 years of providing transformative rural experiences for young people. Since its inception in 1976, the charity, co-founded by Michael and Clare Morpurgo, has hosted over 104,500 children on its working farms. These immersive visits aim to connect urban youth with nature, food production, and animal care.
The charity operates three farms across Devon, Pembrokeshire, and Gloucestershire. In the 2024-25 academic year, the farms welcomed more than 3,500 children from 116 schools and groups. A substantial percentage of these children were from disadvantaged backgrounds, highlighting the charity's commitment to accessibility.
Farms for City Children has noted the increasing importance of outdoor learning, especially as school budgets for trips face cuts. The program demonstrably boosts children's confidence, perseverance, and understanding of where food comes from. These positive impacts extend beyond their stay, influencing their attitudes and academic engagement.
To mark its 50th anniversary in 2026, the charity plans events across its farms, sharing stories from past participants and staff. Initiatives include an anniversary competition and ongoing efforts to enhance biodiversity and sustainable farming practices, ensuring its valuable work continues for future generations.
