An education update from Jan, our Education Officer:

There definitely seems to be more confidence with schools at present regarding outside visitors going in– long may that continue!

I now have a stack of Covid lateral flow tests thanks to the government so can test myself regularly which is reassuring for me – and the schools. Partly due to bookings that have been rescheduled from the second and third lockdowns, I find my diary completely full for this half term, with 14 breakfast workshops, visits with Buttercup, Clover and Rasher and Cookery School sessions.

I am already taking bookings for after half term and expect that to be busy too.

The final of the Agricultural Challenge for Special Schools is happening virtually and has 6 confirmed participants with a 7th pending. There are four schools/colleges entering the Design, Make and Market Challenge and again the final will be held virtually.

Pam assisted by Nellie and David Bruce are going to judge both competitions and I hope to hold a Zoom call with the Special Schools to announce the results, as requested by them.

Looking ahead to the Autumn term, I have had huge interest in the Autumn Harvest Celebration Days, held in October and November on the showground and at Wellington College.

The showground has had more interest than can be accommodated in one day, so this year a second day is planned. So after a year of being mostly furloughed, it is going to be quite a change!

Best wishes,
Jan