MORE than 1,500 primary school children from across Devon stepped out of the classroom and into the world of farming as Farmwise Devon returned to Westpoint Arena on Tuesday, October 6.

The annual event welcomed pupils from more than 35 schools for a hands-on day of learning, giving them the opportunity to meet farmers, get up close to livestock and discover how food is produced from field to fork.

Children took part in a wide range of interactive activities, including milling flour, digging potatoes, meeting newly hatched chicks and learning about animal welfare, dairy production, wildlife and the environment.

The event also gave pupils the chance to meet the people behind Devon's farming industry and learn how their work helps feed the nation.

Farmwise has become a key fixture in Devon's education calendar since launching in 2013, helping thousands of children better understand farming, food production and the countryside.

Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs and Broadband, said: "We sometimes assume that because children live in Devon, they automatically understand farming and where their food comes from, but that isn't always the case. Farmwise gives them the opportunity to learn through experience, meet the people who produce their food and gain a real appreciation for farming and the countryside.

"I hope every child leaves with a greater love of nature, food and the outdoors, and perhaps even starts thinking about the many opportunities and careers that agriculture can offer."

The event comes at a time when the farming sector continues to face significant challenges, including extreme weather, animal disease outbreaks and ongoing economic pressures.

Despite these challenges, farmers from across Devon volunteered their time to inspire the next generation and showcase the innovation, professionalism and resilience that underpin the county's rural economy.

Councillor Simon Clist, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Assets and Resources, said: "For many children, Farmwise provides that vital connection between what they see on supermarket shelves and the people, skills and expertise that make it possible.

"Agriculture is one of Devon's most important industries, but it's also an industry full of opportunity. Today's children are the farmers, land managers, engineers, scientists and innovators of the future. Events like this help open young minds to careers they may never previously have considered."

Devon County Council's Farms Estate also played an important role in the day. Spanning almost 10,000 acres, the estate provides opportunities for people from all backgrounds to enter farming and build successful agricultural businesses. Many of Devon's tenant farmers began their careers on county farms, using them as a stepping stone to establish and grow their own enterprises.

Rosie Dawson, Chair of Devon County Council, said: "It's been fantastic to see so many young people engaging with farming, food production and the environment in such a hands-on way."

Farmwise Devon, chaired by Barny Butterfield of Sandford Orchards, Crediton, is delivered by Devon County Council, the Devon County Agricultural Association, Mole Valley Farmers, Norse Group and dozens of volunteers from across the agricultural sector.

To learn more about Farmwise Devon, visit farmwisedevon.org.