Classroom Farm Walk
Lisavaird Co-Op, in partnership with Carbery, was delighted to support a school tour at the farm of Denis and Collette O’Donovan in Glandore. The ‘Classroom to Farm’ initiative, now in its second year, was set up by four farming families, representing each of the four West Cork Co-Ops.
Children from Leap National School and Maulthrane National School, as well as Transition Year students from Mount Saint Michael’s in Rosscarbery, were given a hands-on learning experience about modern dairy farming. During the tour, they had the opportunity to witness the daily operations of a working farm. They observed cows grazing in lush pastures, experienced the milking process firsthand in the parlour and even got to feed baby calves – an undeniable highlight of the visit.
Adding to the educational experience, Lisavaird Co-Op’s milk collection lorry was on-site, where the driver, Ger Hayes, explained how milk is collected and transported to the Carbery plant in Ballineen. Declan Buttimer, Agri Advisor at Lisavaird Co-Op provided insights into the rigorous testing process that ensures milk quality and he demonstrated the California Mastitis Milk Test for the group of students.
Representatives from Carbery, Diarmuid Healy and Nicole Whelen, then explained how this milk is made into cheese, which is exported across the globe, highlighting the importance of Irish dairy products in international markets.
Denis O’Donovan spoke passionately about the essential role dairy farmers play in feeding the world’s population. He highlighted the significance of sustainable farming practices and the responsibility of farmers in producing high-quality dairy products while ensuring animal welfare and environmental care. “It is crucial that children understand where their food comes from and appreciate the hard work that goes into dairy production. These young minds are the future and educating them about farming helps to build a greater connection between consumers and food producers.” Denis explained. “We, the farmers, approached Carbery and our local Co-Ops to ask if they would support this initiative last year and they did. We hope to encourage more farms to welcome school groups, so we can expand this programme” he added.
Lisavaird Co-Op and Carbery are proud to support initiatives that bridge the gap between farms and schools, ensuring that young people develop an appreciation for the agricultural industry and its contribution to society and to highlight the potential career opportunities associated with the farming sector.
