This month, we welcomed Charters School to the farm for the first time. The group embraced farm life, showing great teamwork during a sheep and cow move. It was a joy to hear their reflections around the bonfire as they shared their thoughts on the week.
Coop Academy North Manchester returned, bringing their usual hard work and energy. Highlights included completing a fencing job, preparing garden-fresh salads, and enjoying fun group games that kept the week lively.
We also hosted Overmonnow Primary for an afternoon during our Team Week. Their visits always bring joy to the farm, and we deeply value our long-standing partnership with this local school.
To celebrate Black History Month, we cooked and shared dishes like Jollof rice, Caribbean Jerk chicken, Callaloo, and fried dumplings—a delicious way to experience different heritages and cultures together.
Bronny visited several partner schools to check in on their progress since their farm stays. At Jamie’s Farm Waterloo, young people from four Virtual Schools came together to celebrate their achievements. Harris City Academy students reflected on how farm life had improved their relationships and behavior at school. At the Katherine Low Settlement youth club, Bronny reconnected with past visitors and welcomed new ones preparing for an upcoming trip to Jamie’s Farm Lewes. The Celebration Film was a hit, sparking laughter and pride as everyone received certificates and postcards.
Michelle and Jo met with Merchants Academy in Bristol to plan an upcoming December visit and catch up with pupils who visited last February. The students proudly shared how they’ve grown since their time on the farm.
Luke and Elly visited Eastern High in Wales, where young people beamed with pride after watching their celebration film. For many, the farm experience has been pivotal, leading to lasting changes in their behaviour and well-being.
The team also visited The Gap Centre in Newport, reuniting with unaccompanied young people who visited in August. It was heart-warming to reminisce about their time on the farm, filled with games, countryside relaxation, and shared meals.
Finally, Jo wrapped up the week with a visit to Pimlico Academy for Culture Day, where students proudly showcased their special clothes. It was great to hear how some have been using the Jamie’s Farm cookbook at home!
Welcome to our new Farm Manager
We are thrilled to introduce James Kightley, our new Farm Manager at Jamie’s Farm Monmouth. James brings a wealth of experience from his previous role, where he combined his passion for farming with his commitment to working with young people. His understanding of how outdoor, hands-on work can positively impact young lives makes him a perfect fit for Jamie’s Farm.
Not only does James have extensive knowledge in managing livestock and running a farm, but his warm, approachable personality has already made a big impression on our team and the young people he’s worked with so far. His natural ability to connect with others and his enthusiasm for sharing the therapeutic benefits of farm life are qualities we’re incredibly excited about. Whether it’s teaching new skills in animal care or leading a group through farm activities, James brings a supportive and encouraging presence that we know will inspire confidence and growth in the young people we work with.
We feel very lucky to have James join the team, and we’re confident he’ll play a key role in helping us continue to offer life-changing experiences at Monmouth. Welcome to the Jamie’s Farm team, James!
