The lesson module Taking the class to the arable farmer, developed as part of the Arable Farming Adventures project by the Smaaklessen team at Wageningen University & Research, supports teachers and arable farmers in organising a meaningful visit. Students actively discover where their food comes from and discuss it with one another.
From preparation to reflection
The lesson module was developed for grades 5 through 8 and consists of three parts. Students first prepare for the visit in the classroom, then go on an excursion to an arable farm, and finish in the classroom with an activity to reflect on the experience. During this learning process, students become acquainted with topics such as soil quality, growing crops, the influence of the weather and the use of crop protection products.
Nutrition and health also receive attention, as does the way arable farming products are processed and eaten. Experiential learning is central: students look, feel, smell and taste for themselves.
Assessed and independent
The teaching materials were assessed by an independent review committee and tested in practice in nine classes that visited nine different arable farmers. The responses were positive. “I really enjoyed it; maybe I do want to become a farmer after all,” said one of the participating students. The module meets the quality requirements of the Food Education Platform. For example, there is no product or brand promotion, the content aligns with the Wheel of Five and the attainment targets for primary education, and objective information is central.
The module is part of a broader educational offering for farm visits, known as Taste Excursions.
Appreciation for education on the farm
Starting in 2026, educational arable farmers affiliated with Boerderij Educatie Nederland will receive compensation for the lessons they provide on their farms. BO Akkerbouw advocated for this, based on the conviction that independent education about arable farming is important for the entire sector. According to André Hoogendijk, director of BO Akkerbouw, the project not only contributes to awareness about healthy and sustainable food, but also strengthens the connection between farmers and society.
Scientific follow-up
This year, the Louis Bolk Institute is starting a study into the effect of farm education, including this lesson module. The study will examine children’s knowledge of the origin and production of food, their appreciation of food and other aspects related to making healthy and sustainable food choices. The results of this study are expected in mid-2027.
Available free of charge
The teaching materials for teachers of grades 5 through 8 are available free of charge via www.voedseleducatie.nl. This online teaching portal has been used by more than 28,000 teachers since 2020. Arable farmers and other interested parties can request the materials via the website of Smaaklessen.
The preparatory classroom lesson includes two short videos about soil and arable farming. These videos are freely accessible and can also be used independently of the lesson module.
Schools that have become enthusiastic and would like to take a class to an arable farmer can find an overview of participating farmers and horticulturalists on the website of Boerderij Educatie Nederland. These educational farmers have completed training focusing on pedagogy, teaching methods, safety and hygiene.
Cooperation and funding
The Arable Farming Adventures project receives financial support from the knowledge and innovation agenda for agriculture, water and food. Within the KIA, businesses, knowledge institutions and the government work together on innovations for safe and healthy food (and a green living environment) for 9 billion people in a resilient world. Partners in this project are BO Akkerbouw, Aeres University of Applied Sciences, Boerderij Educatie Nederland, Kom bij de Boer and Wageningen University & Research.