Sponsored by the Scottish Government and kicking off Scottish Food Fortnight, the event at Duchlage Farm near Arden saw the youngsters getting stuck into six sessions focusing on; machinery, dairy, biodiversity, game, beef and lamb production and cereals - giving the pupils the chance to learn about where their food comes from. RHET aims to build bridges and understanding between farmers, producers and pupils and relies on volunteers to do so. The dairy session was run by local dairy farmers and pupils learned the journey of milk from grass to glass with Millie, the lifesize fibreglass milking cow.

Quality Meat Scotland were also there teaching pupils about beef and lamb production, while Scotland’s Natural Larder offered the ‘farmers in training’ a lesson in wildlife management including venison tasting.

Plus, RHET volunteers took a trip back in time to show how machinery on the farm has advanced, and looked at cereal production in Scotland. Iain Wilkinson, Rural Business manager at Luss Estates Company, said: “Welcoming over 200 children to Luss Estates is one of our highlights of the year. It is a fantastic opportunity for youngsters to learn about where their food comes and to experience a little of what life can be like working in agriculture in the twenty-first century. We would like to thank RHET for arranging this excellent event.” Held over two days, the visits were designed to give pupils a better awareness of where the food on their plate is produced and link to ‘A Curriculum For Excellence’.