Tractors into Schools: Bringing the Farm to the Classroom 14 Mar

Agriculture plays a vital role in our everyday lives, yet many children grow up with little understanding of where their food comes from. The "Tractors into Schools" initiative, provided by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society with the support of local farmers and young farmer groups, aims to bridge this knowledge gap by bringing farming straight to the classroom, giving pupils a firsthand experience of modern agriculture.

What is Tractors into Schools?

"Tractors into Schools" is an initiative designed to educate young people about farming, food production, and the vital role that agriculture plays in society. Organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, with help from dedicated local farmers and young farmer groups, the project involves farmers taking their tractors and machinery into schools to give children an interactive and engaging learning experience.

Why is it Important?

With an increasing disconnect between rural and urban communities, initiatives like this help foster an understanding and appreciation for farming. Many children may never have set foot on a farm, so seeing a real-life tractor up close and hearing from farmers about their work helps them develop a stronger connection to the countryside and food production.

What Do Children Learn?

During a "Tractors into Schools" visit, pupils have the opportunity to:

• Learn about different types of tractors and their roles in modern farming.
• Understand the journey of food from farm to fork.
• Explore the technology and sustainability practices used in agriculture today.
• Meet local farmers and ask questions about their work and experiences.
• Gain an appreciation for careers in agriculture and the importance of farming in feeding the nation.

The Impact on Education

This hands-on approach to learning complements the national curriculum in subjects such as science, geography, and design technology. By providing real-world examples, it encourages children to think critically about food production, land use, and the environment.

In 2025, the initiative visited many areas across Lincolnshire, including Bourne, Lincoln, Grantham, and Louth. We had 14 farmers visiting 31 schools, nurseries, and SEN provisions, reaching an incredible 2,926 students.

The Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, is a registered charity whose aims are to educate the local community about food, farming and the countryside. Profits from the Lincolnshire Show and other LAS Events go towards supporting educational work that engages more than 16,000 local school children each year.