Farmer Time initiative gains charity status

Farmer Time, the groundbreaking program linking school classrooms with farmers through live video chats, has achieved recognition as an independent charity.

This milestone follows a successful partnership between Village Farm and Leaf (Linking Environment and Farming), with official approval from the UK government.

Founded by Cambridgeshire farmer Tom Martin, Farmer Time revolutionises agricultural education by allowing students to interact directly with farmers in real time.

See also: How farmers can engage the public with agriculture

Using platforms like Zoom and Skype, children explore the realities of farming, from planting wheat seeds to measuring biodiversity in flower meadows.

Over 10,000 students currently participate, tackling topics such as rural crime, genetics in cattle breeding, and the environmental impact of farming.

Farmer Time founder Tom Martin © Tom Martin

“Farmer Time connects us directly with the next generation of consumers,” said Mr Martin, who runs a sheep and arable farm with his family in Haddon, near Peterborough.

“We show them how UK farming contributes to food production, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration.”

A 2024 survey revealed overwhelming support for the initiative, with 100% of participating teachers and farmers praising its impact.

One farmer noted: “Every single call brightens the children’s day. For many, it’s their only glimpse of farm life.”

The program has already delivered measurable outcomes, with 88% of classes exploring environmental topics, 62% discussing healthy eating, and 48% learning about careers in agriculture.

Teachers highlight the value of forming year-long relationships with farmers, observing seasonal changes and gaining hands-on insights into the food system.

New board members

Farmer Time’s charity status also brings new leadership, with Dr John Viney, a business leader with a track record of scaling successful ventures and Dr Kirstie McAdoo, an expert in sustainable food systems and agricultural education, joining the board.

Together, they aim to expand the program’s reach and further integrate farming into classroom learning.

As an independent charity, Farmer Time is poised to inspire even more young minds, fostering a deeper understanding of farming’s essential role in society. For more information, visit www.farmertime.uk.