‘
As well as the farmer and farm workers there are so many other people and businesses both directly and indirectly benefiting from the farm, so it is important to portray this to the public
farmer and we try to make it as fun as possible while trying to get positive messages across,” explains Fiona. To ensure minimal risk on farm RHET has a rule that there is no eating on farm to minimise the risk of hand to mouth contamination. There are numerous necessities that go with hosting visits including toilet and hand washing facilities. RHET has invested in a portable sink hand washing facility which was funded by NFU Scotland’s centenary fund and allows thorough hand washing after farm visits.
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Through funding Hugh has also managed to invest in a purpose built trailer which acts as a portable classroom. Seating 35 people with seat belts, disabled access for wheelchairs and brakes, the covered trailer also has roll- up sides to allow it to be used regardless of the weather. “The trailer has been a great asset to being able to cater for group visits, it means we can take a tour around the farm safely without anyone wandering off. I also prefer having the trailer to run tours as it means you have a captive audience and it is easier to keep them all focussed. “As someone who is passionate about food and farming it is extremely satisfying welcoming groups of farmers and the general public on farm. It is important to adapt each visit and the level of knowledge exchanged depending on the group,” explains Hugh.
One of the main open days is when the entire first year from Annan Academy visit the Crichton Farm, a day which has been happening for
ABOVE LEFT If possible being able to see cows being milked helps them appreciate where their milk comes from.
ABOVE RIGHT The on farm classroom allows a gathering place when it is raining, but also somewhere to focus without any distractions.
four years and is one of Hugh’s favourites. As well as the farm visit there are also local businesses that take workshops throughout the day. It is an opportunity for the students to see the vast variety of career opportunities available within agriculture from vets and vet nurses through to making ice cream and genetic consultants.
“Secondary pupils are able to understand working life on a broader scale and it is good to look at the number of people in the rural community relying on farms. As well as the farmer and farm workers there are so many other people and businesses both directly and indirectly benefiting from the farm, so it is important to portray this to the public,” says Hugh.
Hugh already has a success story from hosting RHET visits. In one
24 THE JOURNAL AUGUST 2015
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