Sowing the seeds of knowledge: Sandhill View Academy pupils learn about science on a farm
Science is truly a wonderful subject, and nothing beats the power of learning through unique experiments in authentic settings.
For year 10 pupils at Sandhill View Academy, this was a welcome reality during their recent visit to East Durham College…
A fun, engaging environment to put real skills into practice
Students worked alongside those with job roles that rely on science, helping them connect their classroom skills with the real working world. Not only was this an engaging experience that enabled them to build on critical abilities, but it also offered so much fun! And that can be just as important.
The experience taught pupils about selective breeding and genetics through the study of horses, cows, sheep, pigs and goats. As well as learning about the breeding of these animals, they explored how the farmers monitored growth and watched as data was collected from some one-week old piglets. Cute!
Additionally, pupils discovered the conditions needed for the health of each organism and how to promote calcium by adding light, which allows for vitamin D production and the prevention of brittle bones.
A memorable day that increased knowledge — outside of the classroom
It wasn’t just science that pupils delved into, either. They used their maths knowledge to work out the average mass of a piglet and considered how much food would be needed to increase mass but also allow profit for the farm.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “”A (farm) fresh education! Congratulations to Sandhill View Academy’s brilliant year 10s on making the most of this fantastic learning opportunity.
“Experiencing science and maths in action on a real farm is a testament to the power of learning beyond the classroom. Well done to all involved.”
The students loved the animals and many were brave enough to stroke them! Plus, as well as Old McDonald favourites like sheep, pigs, and cows, the pupils enjoyed a rare opportunity to see animals from exotic locations, including many reptiles.
Overall, pupils at Sandhill View Academy had an incredibly memorable day and look forward to working closely with the college in the future.
Sandhill View Academy is a Schools North East Partner School . If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.
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