NORTON College has officially reopened its school farm.

The facility closed down a number of years ago but was previously used as part of the curriculum and with students also helping to rear a variety of animals which were locally sourced.

Tim Johnson, Headteacher, Norton College, said: “In February 2022 we started to collect feedback from parents and students in relation to our proposal to re-open the school farm at Norton College.

“ Since that time, it has been an absolute delight to see the way in which the whole school community has responded so positively to this proposal.

“ This is typified by our fabulous Farm Ambassador students, who have already given up a significant amount of their time to restore the site to its former glory. “

Mr Johnson added: “School funding is under significant pressure at present, and this has been exacerbated by the recent rise in the cost of energy.

“We have already benefitted from the support of local businesses, such as Castle Farm Vets, who have provided us with services at a reduced rate or even free of charge.

He added: “In addition, we would like to thank Forestry England for their generous donation of oak saplings which have been planted on-site to commemorate the re-opening of our two-acre, purpose-built farm facility.”

Sam Stones, Assistant Headteacher at Norton College, said: “We know that education in successful schools goes well beyond the classroom.

“We’re delighted to be able to return this provision to our extra-curricular offer and we are enormously excited about the opportunities that this facility will bring to students at Norton College.

He added: “The re-opening of our farm will enhance and enrich learning both within and outside of the curriculum and we’re pleased to have joined the School Farms Network which champions this vital work.

“Our existing extra-curricular offer already gives students access to a diverse range of clubs and activities including the college’s Green Team which is responsible for a range of environmental projects across the school.

“This provision will now be further strengthened following the introduction of livestock enabling us to capitalise on the relationship between environmental sustainability and agriculture, both of which play a significant role in the local as well as national and international economy. “

If there are any further businesses which feel that they could offer Norton College similar support,, either email schoolfarm@nortoncollege.net or phone on 01653 693296.