Growing food in schools
Schools play an important role in teaching valuable life skills to young people. One such skill that has gained popularity in recent years is growing fruits and vegetables on or near school sites. This offers a range of benefits for students, educators, and the wider community.
Benefits
Adding fruit and vegetable growing into the school curriculum promotes healthy eating habits. By participating in the process of growing produce, students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the origins of their food. This hands-on experience encourages them to make healthier food choices and a lifelong commitment to wellness.
Gardening can enhance engagement and understanding among students of all ages across a range of subjects including:
- science – studying plant biology and ecology
- maths – calculating yields and measuring plant growth
- art – designing gardens or drawing and painting plant pictures
Growing food in schools encourages environmental responsibility in students. They learn about sustainable farming practices, composting, and the importance of biodiversity in ecosystems. This helps them understand the impact of their actions on the planet.
Challenges
Starting and maintaining a school garden comes with some challenges. Schools may have limited space, inadequate resources, and seasonal constraints. Ensuring the garden remains a part of the curriculum and is sustained over time requires ongoing dedication and support from staff, students, and the broader community.
Resources
There are many resources available to support schools on their green journey.
Organisations such as Garden Organic and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) offer guidance and resources to help create school gardens.
Teachers can tap into local knowledge from experienced growers and support networks across Birmingham. Use the Birmingham food growing map to find and get involved with local growing sites and groups.
Learn more about food growing in schools at:
- World Wildlife Fund – Growing food at school: A beginner's guide
- Royal Horticultural Society – Campaign for school gardening
- Garden Organic – Growing in schools
- Muddy Faces – Composting in schools
- Food 4 Families – Teachers' guide to composting in schools
Page last updated: 19 April 2024
