Session 1: Introduction to British farming

Learners use data in tables and graphs to find out about the types and locations of farms in the United Kingdom. They apply a range of maths skills to develop understanding about land use and space. They hear from farmers who explain the challenges they face and start think as engineers to creatively by asking questions to clarify the problem.

Session 2: Can the right balance be found?

Learners explore the concept of sustainability in the context of arable farming. They explore how engineers are finding innovative solutions to support farmers to reduce greenhouse gases. In doing so, they ask questions to clarify problem and start to appreciate that ‘finding the right balance’ is the key to finding a solution.

Session 3: How can sustainable growing techniques innovate how we grow plants for food?

Learners are introduced to a ‘hydroponic system’ as a contemporary farming method. They apply their science knowledge to this real-life application and explore its advantages and disadvantages. Working in teams they use recycled materials to create a simple hydroponic farm and evaluate their prototype.

Session 4: What do engineers need to consider when designing large farm machines?

Sustainability remains a key focus in this session, as learners explore the advantages and disadvantages of using large farm machinery in various arable farming processes. They focus on the challenge farmers have when moving large farm machinery around country lanes imagine and plan a solution by adapting a simple mechanism.

Session 5: How could farming benefit from automation?

Learners focus on the use of big data and how it is used to provide farmers with key information about environmental conditions on their farms. They create a program on a micro:bit to log data about the environment for growing plants, specifically temperature and creatively explore how technology enables automation improves necessary farming processes e.g. switching on irrigation systems during periods of warm weather

Celebrate your pupils' achievements on the Sustainable Farms pathway!