More than 1,500 primary school children from across our county stepped out of the classroom and into the world of farming this week as Farmwise Devon returned to Westpoint Arena.
The annual event welcomed pupils from more than 35 schools for a hands-on day of learning, giving them the opportunity to meet farmers, get up close to livestock and discover how food is produced from field to fork.
You can watch our short highlights film of Farmwise 2026 here:
Children took part in a wide range of interactive activities, including milling flour, digging potatoes, meeting newly hathed chicks and learning about animal welfare, dairy production, wildlife and the environment. The event also gave them the chance to meet the people behind our county’s farming industry and learn how their work helps feed the nation.
Farmwise has become a key fixture in our education calendar since launching in 2013, helping thousands of children better understand farming, food production and the countryside. For many of the children attending, it was a rare opportunity to experience agriculture first hand and gain a greater appreciation of the food they eat every day.
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs and Broadband, said:
“The atmosphere today has been incredible. You can hear the excitement and enthusiasm coming from every corner of the event.
“We sometimes assume that because children live in Devon, they automatically understand farming and where their food comes from, but that isn’t always the case. Farmwise gives them the opportunity to learn through experience, meet the people who produce their food and gain a real appreciation for farming and the countryside.
“I hope every child leaves with a greater love of nature, food and the outdoors, and perhaps even starts thinking about the many opportunities and careers that agriculture can offer.”
The event comes at a time when the farming sector continues to face significant challenges, including extreme weather, animal disease outbreaks and ongoing economic pressures. Despite these challenges, farmers from across Devon volunteered their time to inspire the next generation and showcase the innovation, professionalism and resilience that underpin the county’s rural economy.
Councillor Simon Clist, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Assets and Resources, said:
“For many children, Farmwise provides that vital connection between what they see on supermarket shelves and the people, skills and expertise that make it possible.
“Agriculture is one of Devon’s most important industries, but it’s also an industry full of opportunity. Today’s children are the farmers, land managers, engineers, scientists and innovators of the future. Events like this help open young minds to careers they may never previously have considered.”
Our Farms Estate also played an important role in the day. Spanning almost 10,000 acres, the estate provides opportunities for people from all backgrounds to enter farming and build successful agricultural businesses. Many of our tenant farmers began their careers on county farms, using them as a stepping stone to establish and grow their own enterprises.
We’re continuing to explore how the Farms Estate can create even more opportunities for young people, including apprenticeships, internships, training opportunities and pathways into farming and land-based careers.
Matthew Jones, Director of Business and Transformation Services at Devon County Council, said:
“Not every child attending Farmwise will come from a farming background, but that shouldn’t be a barrier to a future in agriculture.
“Devon’s Farms Estate exists to help people enter the industry, and we’re keen to create even more opportunities for young people to gain experience, develop skills and build careers in this sector. We want talented young people to see that there is a place for them in Devon’s farming future.”
Councillor Rosie Dawson, Chair of Devon County Council, also attended the event and praised the enthusiasm shown by pupils throughout the day. She said:
“It’s been fantastic to see so many young people engaging with farming, food production and the environment in such a hands-on way. Farmwise helps children understand not only where their food comes from, but also the important role farming plays in Devon’s communities, economy and landscape.”
Farmwise Devon is delivered through a partnership between Devon County Council, the Devon County Agricultural Association, Mole Valley Farmers, Norse Group and dozens of volunteers from across the agricultural sector.
We want to say a huge thank you to Bev Brown, Barny Butterfield and the many volunteers, farmers and exhibitors whose passion, dedication and hard work make Farmwise Devon possible each year.
To learn more about Farmwise Devon and its work connecting young people with food, farming and the countryside, visit Farmwise Devon.
Want more farm-themed family fun? Join Farmwise at the South Devon Food Hub Family Fun Day on Wednesday 28 October for free hands-on activities, tractor tours, food demonstrations and the chance to discover where your food comes from. Free tickets are available via Family Fun Day in partnership with Farmwise.