Our partner LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) had the pleasure of introducing a group of student ambassadors to their Honorary President , HRH, The Duchess of Edinburgh at the home of Jordan's Cereals. 

The year 12 students from St Benedict's Sixth form were one of three schools involved in a year-long project, funded by the Royal Warrant Holders Association Charity Fund, which aimed to support young people to raise their aspirations and highlight career opportunities in the agri-food industry.

The project focused on sustainable food production, being aware of the global challenges we face, and the opportunities and solutions that the agri-food industry can have to the issues around sustainability. Additionally it hoped to provide young people with the tangible ways in which they can make a difference such as inspiring them to consider a job in the green skills sector. 

Each school was given the opportunity for multiple touch points throughout the year which included up to six visits to farms or agri-food businesses. On all the visits the students were involved with hands on tasks, whether that be sustainable farming, conservation or food production. It was important that the visits were engaging and related to real life roles and activities - so students could see the relevance to their own possible future careers and opportunities. Taking part and helping farmers and businesses also did wonders for the students’ team working and communication skills, allowing them to achieve and feel valued. 

One of their favourite visits that St Benedict's Sixth Form students took part in included an amazing tour of LEAF Demonstration Farm - The Ragley Estate where oats, supplied to Jordans cereals, are grown using regenerative farming practices, this was then followed by a fun activity making their own healthy recipes using Jordans products.

You can imagine the delight of the students when they were given the opportunity to have a visit to see the oats being processed at the Jordans factory,  spend time with the marketing teams, understand the R&D involved in new products coming to the market and understanding the supply chain from ‘Field to Bowl’ alongside the commitment to sustainability in the supply chain –with the Jordan’s Farm Partnership – a partnership between Jordan’s Dorset Ryvita, LEAF and The Wildlife Trust followed by a chance to feedback how valuable the project had been to LEAF's Honorary President HRH, The Duchess of Edinburgh.

All students and teachers have reported how beneficial the project has been, the multiple touch points and small group size has had a dramatic impact upon students confidence and self-esteem, enabling them to feel safe enough to ask questions, get stuck in and enjoy some unforgettable experiences.