FARMS FOR CITY CHILDREN: TRANSFORMING LIVES, GROWING FUTURES

For almost fifty years, Farms for City Children has enabled children, many from urban and disadvantaged communities, to spend a week living and working on real farms. New research demonstrates that these experiences are far more than memorable school trips. They are often transformative life experiences that shape attitudes, aspirations, wellbeing and life choices for decades. The study gathered evidence from interviews with founders, staff, teachers and trustees, alongside a survey of adults who attended Farms for City Children as children. Many respondents were recalling visits that took place 30, 40 or even nearly 50 years ago, yet their memories remained vivid and emotionally significant. The findings show Farms for City Children: • Connects children with nature and the countryside. • Builds confidence, teamwork and resilience • Supports literacy, learning and engagement with school. • For some children facing difficult circumstances at home, the farm offered a sense of safety • Inspires future careers and life choices. • Creates benefits that are passed on to future generations.