Shallowford Farm Visit
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Torbay
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May 2026
A funded visit to Shallowford Farm for Year 4 pupils, giving children access to a hands-on countryside learning experience that many would not otherwise have reached.
Services Design Solution supported the school to take two Year 4 groups to Shallowford Farm, opening up outdoor learning, animal encounters, nature connection and curriculum enrichment beyond the local area.
Services Design Solution funded an educational farm visit to Shallowford Farm for two Year 4 classes, supporting 52 pupils to access outdoor learning and experiences beyond the classroom.
As part of this support, SDS also funded coach transport to and from the school on both visit days, as well as lunch at the farm, helping remove some of the biggest practical barriers schools face when arranging enrichment opportunities beyond the local area.
The visit introduced children to a working farm environment, helping them explore where food comes from, how animals are cared for, and why the natural world matters to everyday life.
For many families, trips beyond the local area can be difficult to access. SDS funding removed that barrier, giving pupils a memorable chance to meet animals, spend time outdoors, ask questions and build confidence in a new setting.
The experience offered fresh air, movement, curiosity and connection – the kind of learning that leaves muddy footprints in both memory and confidence.
“Many families at our school have fewer opportunities to visit and experience things beyond the local area. Enabling them to take part in these activities really is life-changing and inspirational.”
— Ellacombe Academy Headteacher
LEARNING OUTCOMES
• Understand life on a working farm
• Explore food provenance and seasonal growing
• Learn about animal care, habitats and biodiversity
• Build confidence through hands-on outdoor learning
OTHER OUTCOMES
• 52 Year 4 pupils supported across two class visits
• Coach transport and lunch provided for pupils on both visit days
• Barriers to enrichment beyond the local area reduced
• Curriculum learning brought to life through nature-based experiences
Why It Matters
SUPPORTING LOCAL SCHOOLS
• Make greater use of natural assets
• Close the educational attainment gap and broaden
the skills base
