Farming can help children effectively learn about crucial science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), according to a new study.
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) findings show the educational value of agriculture, which is directly linked to many topics on the STEM curriculum including life cycles, food chains and food technology.
It also found a substantial skills gap in careers based around STEM subjects not only in agriculture but across the UK.
NFU president Minette Batters said farming provided an “innovative and exciting way” to promote learning to the schoolchildren.
“We have spent time working with schools to help teachers deliver all-important STEM subjects using real-life farming examples,” she added.
“It’s been rewarding with countless teachers telling us of grassroot level triumphs, as pupils discover a whole new subject area that was previously uninspiring to them.”
The study found that teaching STEM through real-life practical situations could deliver many benefits for children’s education and future career opportunities.
“This clearly demonstrates why the government should recognise the role of agriculture in inspiring STEM learning, to help connect pupils with the country’y farming heritage.”
LSL News.