School Milk Scheme Brings Farm Experiences to Irish Students

Over 65 primary school pupils in County Tipperary recently had the opportunity to visit a working Irish dairy farm, connecting classroom learning with real-life agricultural experiences. The initiative, a collaboration between Agri Aware and dairy co-ops, aims to educate the next generation of consumers about dairy production and the origins of their food.

Hands-on Learning at Ryan Family Farm

Students from Scoil Mhuire, Knockavillans and Thomastown National School toured the 160-cow farm of Dairygold supplier Michael Ryan, located just outside Cashel, Co. Tipperary. The visit included a demonstration of the milking process, an introduction to spring-born calves and a look at the herd of cows.

EU School Milk Scheme and Nutritional Education

The farm visit was organized for schools participating in the EU School Milk Scheme. During the visit, Dr. Mary Harrington, Senior Nutritionist with the National Dairy Council (NDC), led an interactive nutrition session. Dr. Harrington emphasized the importance of dairy in a balanced diet, highlighting key nutrients like calcium, protein, potassium, phosphorus, iodine, vitamin B2, and vitamin B12, which are vital for growing bodies and minds. She encouraged children to aim for five servings of dairy each day.

Farmer-Led Initiative and Sustainability

The “Host Farm Initiative” is farmer-led, with the host farmer guiding students on a tour of the farm. Michael Ryan was assisted by his son, Micheál, in showing the students around. The NDC is also facilitating school farm visits around the country this summer for schools participating in the EU School Milk Scheme, aiming to provide hands-on learning experiences.

The National Dairy Council highlighted the importance of sustainable dairy farming, noting that it encompasses reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting water quality, and maintaining high standards of animal welfare while producing nutritious dairy products. NDC Farmer Ambassadors, Brendan Walsh and Dara Killeen, showcase real-life examples of sustainability on Irish dairy farms.

Positive Feedback and Future Visits

Farm owner Mary Ryan expressed her satisfaction with the visit, noting that many children described it as the “best school tour ever.” She emphasized the benefits of farm visits in helping children connect with farming life and understand where their food comes from. Similar school farm visits are planned nationwide this summer for schools participating in the EU School Milk Scheme.