A FARM charity is looking for farms willing to host occasional school visits.

FACE (Farming and Countryside Education) is a charity that exists to educate young people about food, farming and the countryside.

David Etheridge, FACE North East Education Coordinator, said: “A visit to a working farm can and should form part of every child’s education.

“A farm visit will support curriculum learning, but also help children and young people become better connected to the issues that shape our region and our world.”

FACE is often approached by schools that would like to visit a working farm – most recently two from the Middlesbrough area were in contact.

Mr Etheridge said they try to put schools in touch with local farms to keep their travel time and cost as low as possible.

“We also help schools and farmers with any safety concerns, and can sometimes offer to accompany a visit,” he said.

“Ideally we like to see schools establishing a long-term link with a local farm.

“This may only be two or three visits a year, but allows the teachers, pupils and farmer to develop a supportive and trusted relationship.

“This makes for high quality learning.”

Mr Etheridge is keen to find farms willing to take part in the Middlesbrough area – but any offers of help would be welcomed. He can be contacted by emailing davide@face-online.org.uk.