Scottish Borders children attend farming education day

This year marks the 12th edition of the event, which took place in Springwood Park on May 20.

The event provided children with a comprehensive learning opportunity about farming, food production, and various components of rural life.

The focus this year was on zero hunger, one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The Primary five youngsters were engaged in activities ranging from auctioneering, milking, butter-making, to learning about farm machinery, sheep shearing, and wool spinning.

Children roll out different shapes at the Countryside Day (Image: Scottish Borders Council) They also had a chance to meet staff and council members from the Scottish Borders Council including Council Leader Euan Jardine and Convener Watson MacAteer.

Councillor Julie Pirone, executive member for education, youth development and lifelong learning, said: "This is a fabulous event which is now a real key date in the school calendar.

"All primary five children from across our schools are given the opportunity to have real hands-on experience of a variety of rural activities."

Dan Withall, Executive Director of the Border Union Agricultural Society, said: "We are delighted to welcome another 1200 primary five children to Springwood Park, to experience the width and breadth of farming.

"We want this event to inspire young people, and to show them a variety of rural skills, from the past, present, and future, through the many demonstrations here today."

The event is made possible by the combined efforts of 300 volunteers and more than 50 exhibitors.

Mr Withall indicated that the activities that the children were exposed to could provide the spark of inspiration they need to consider careers in the rural sector.

He further acknowledged the role Scottish Borders Council (SBC) plays in sustaining the event and the continuous backing of the Fallago Environment Fund which partly finances the project.

Additional support comes from Arla UK, BASF, Charity Begins at Home (CBAH) Farmers Choir, Kelso Farmers Market, Ford and Etal Estate, and Kelso RFC.

Councillor Pirone expressed her gratitude to the Border Union Agricultural Society for organising the event.

She also acknowledged the wide range of activities and demonstrations available for the children to explore, potentially igniting interest in future rural sector careers.