A glimpse of farming life for pupils at Pakeman Primary School in Holloway

CHILDREN at a primary school in Holloway got a taste of farm life as farmers brought their animals and equipment to London for a day of agricultural fun.

Pupils of all ages at Pakeman Primary School got the chance to meet farmyard friends – including a sheep in a Christmas hat – sit in tractors decorated in Christmas lights, and make ice creams with local ingredients.

Headteacher Emma Bonnin said: “For most children here this was their first experience of seeing farm animals and meeting farmers. The children have been so excited. It’s been wonderful to see their faces light up. Our school has been full of joy today”.

The day was organised by the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) education team who are aiming to help inner city children learn about where their food comes from.

David Barton, a livestock farmer in Cirencester, brought two lambs, two chickens and Gary the ram to the school with his wife Churriana Genillard.

Mr Barton said: “We were delighted to bring what we do on the farm into a school in north London. I think it’s important to engage with children at this age. The excitement on their faces to meet our sheep has made it all worthwhile.”

Ms Bonnin added: “The NFU education team does vital work in teaching children in a fun way about where their food comes from – that it’s not just from the supermarket. They have learned today there is life outside London and the work that goes on in the countryside to put food on their plates.”