Schools’ Challenge 2023 Combines Fun, Learning and a Sprinkle of Magic! 02 Jul
The 138th Lincolnshire Show saw the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society’s Schools’ Challenge fill the EXO Centre with over 50 fantastic stands showcasing almost a year’s hard work. The buzz of excitement was palpable as the Centre transformed into a hub of discovery and learning.
2,000 students from 52 schools across the county embraced one (or more) of ten challenges to compete and be crowned Schools’ Challenge Champion, covering aspects such as food, farming, agriculture, the environment, and sustainability. Working on their projects at school through lunchtime clubs, groups, whole class, whole school, or through planned lessons, schools were able to produce a final presentation to reveal to two independent judges from both the industry and education.
The EXO Centre entrance was adorned with a beautiful floral arch kindly designed by Flowers by Suzanne, which provided the perfect backdrop for the ‘Veg-out’ Challenge beds, and the ‘Art from the Heart’ Challenge entries were proudly displayed at the walkway from the EPIC Centre.
The judging took place across both days of the Show (21st and 22nd June) and students demonstrated, sang, chatted and enthused their way through their 15 minutes of judging for the category prizes. The students were also able to vie for the public vote in the ‘People’s Choice’ category (kindly sponsored by FeRN-Lincs). Students developed their communication and confidence skills as the passing public were invited to taste, quiz, get hands-on and chat to the students as they cast their votes.
The results of the winners are listed here, and we wish to congratulate all the participants in the Challenge and we hope you are proudly wearing your rosettes, generously sponsored by Rockscape, for all your efforts.
The LAS Education team also hosted a brand-new Farm Gate Marquee theme this year, connecting STEM learning with food and farming activities. Students were able to learn and take part in a ‘mock production line’ from Bakkavor, make a seed bomb from The Inkpot – Organic Permaculture Farm, activities from both Riseholme College and Brackenhurst NTU, British Chlorophyll and QEHS STEM Ambassadors fascinated the crowds with scientific exploration.
Livestock tours and activities within the EXO Centre Learning Zone – sponsored by St. Marks Shopping – Lincoln, were also enjoyed by students from both the Schools’ Challenge and visiting – covering the story of wheat. Thank you to Prikli Pear (corn-dolly making), Heckington Windmill (flour making) and Fun Kitchen (breadmaking) for providing such comprehensive and inspirational sessions. Our Schools’ Challenge Sponsors Branston Ltd. Waterside Shopping Centre, Orsted and ADA were also providing excellent activities to get involved in.
Wherever you found yourselves on Show days – we hope you had as much fun and enjoyment as the children that visited – and we hope to see you again next year!
“Best day of my life” – Student participating in the Schools’ Challenge at St Peter at Gowts.
