Wexford pupils ‘sow, grow, and care’ for food as part of unique horticultural project

By Simon Bourke, Wexford People

Children from St. Fintan’s National School in Taghmon have completed a unique food and horticultural project which saw them learn how to grow their own food, discover where food sources come from, and visit a working farm.

Developed by Ann Marie Laffan of Wexford County Council (WCC) and funded through the Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme, the inspiration for the project came from Principal Willie Cleary who felt that many children no longer understand where their food comes from.

In response, Ann Marie developed an innovative hands-on programme designed to reconnect children with food production, healthy eating, cooking and horticulture through practical experiences.

Each class was allocated its own growing bed within a purpose-built greenhouse where children learned to sow, grow and care for fruit, vegetables and flowers. Weekly sessions were delivered by horticultural tutor Catherine George and Sarah Shiggins, Community Food and Nutrition Worker with FDYS, who introduced pupils to growing food, healthy eating, cooking skills and sustainable food practices.

Cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District, Cllr Frank Staples, with the group at the special showcase of the Food & Horticulture Project at Taghmon National School on Wednesday. Photo: Jim Campbell. © Jim Campbell

Pupils visited the farm of Jer O’Mahony near Wellingtonbridge, where they experienced life on a working farm, learned about livestock, crops, renewable energy and modern farming practices, before planting trees and sunflowers to take home.

“Being able to introduce them to the animals, the crops and the importance of caring for the land was incredibly rewarding,” Jer said. “Their curiosity and enthusiasm were fantastic, and hopefully they left with a greater appreciation of farming, food production and the people who work so hard to put food on our tables.”

At Saltrock Dairy on Tara Hill they learned about dairy farming, discovered how milk is produced and even made their own butter. A guided foraging walk through Courtown Woods with Lorraine O’Dwyer of Gallivanting Tours introduced pupils to edible native plants and the importance of understanding the natural environment as a food source.

Harley Sweeney is giving Cllr Frank Staples (Cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District) and tutor Catherine George a tour of the garden during a special showcase of the Food & Horticulture Project at Taghmon National School on Wednesday. Photo: Jim Campbell. © Jim Campbell

Rosslare Municipal District Manager Ann Marie Laffan speaking during a special showcase of the Food & Horticulture Project at Taghmon National School on Wednesday. Photo: Jim Campbell. © Jim Campbell

The pupils received a visit from Tara Hill Honey, whose beekeeping demonstration gave children a fascinating insight into the essential role bees play in pollination, biodiversity and food production. The project’s inclusive approach also ensured dedicated experiences for the school’s autism classes, including a therapeutic visit to Equine Railway Gallop, where pupils enjoyed equine-assisted activities in a supportive outdoor setting.

Special recognition was given to local volunteer Ned Furlong who, having initially helping with preparing growing beds, transporting compost and maintaining the greenhouse, quickly became an integral member of the team, building wonderful relationships with the children and contributing enormously to the success of the project.

Cathaoirleach of the Rosslare Municipal District (RMD), Cllr Frank Staples was full of praise for the initiative.

“This project is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when schools, local communities and organisations work together,” he said. “The enthusiasm shown by the children has been inspiring, and the practical skills and knowledge they have gained will stay with them for many years. Congratulations to everyone involved in making this such a success.”

According to Ann Marie Laffan the project was about “much more than growing vegetables”.

“It was about helping children understand where their food comes from, giving them practical life skills, encouraging healthy eating and fostering a real appreciation for nature, farming and their local community,” she said.