As ever, this month has been a busy and varied one! We’ve welcomed groups from Castle Mead Academy, Nightingale Academy and the Dean Academy, alongside a group of adults from the Saltbox for our shorter week. It was amazing to see the Jamie’s Farm approach having such an impact on adults, as well as young people – the power of positivity, togetherness, and being out on the farm, knows no age limit!
Lots of seasonal activity has been happening throughout November. The Saltbox group did some wonderful work setting up the barn for our chickens for the winter, and Castle Mead Academy did an excellent job of carving 13 pumpkins to decorate the barn with, which were later cooked up.
On the farm, the Hereford cattle and Aberdeen Angus cattle are in the sheds for the winter, and we are hoping to sell some Hereford cattle at market this week. The pigs are also now inside, with lots of little piglets weaning! The Lowline cattle have their bale grazing set up ready for winter with some lovely wildflower rich hay to spread across the higher meadows!Â
We would like to give a big shout out to our most recent residential volunteer, Cara, whose consistent and gentle approach with the group from the Dean Academy enabled the team to get on with a huge amount of behind-the-scenes work. Residential volunteers make so much difference to a week, and the generosity in giving up a week to support the farm team and young people does not go unnoticed.
Finally, we were delighted to pledge a joint of Jamie’s Farm meat to our Longtown Primary School’s Christmas hamper. We really love having the opportunity to engage with the local schools and share our amazing produce. Best of luck to all those who’ve entered!
