Causeway Coast schools learn how food can connect cultures in Sow Grow Eat project
Two Causeway Coast schools have recently completed a Sow Grow Eat project, learning how food can connect cultures.
Key Stage 1 pupils from Bushmills Primary School and Gaelscoil an Chaistil, Ballycastle, took part in the Sow Grow Eat project.
Over the course of the programme, children explored where food comes from, how it is grown, and the role farming plays in local heritage, sustainability and community life.
Through regular visits to Broughgammon Farm, pupils took part in hands-on activities in farming, gardening, cooking and environmental learning.
Each child kept a seasonal project journal, recording their learning throughout the year. Activities included learning about farm life and seasonal cycles, pumpkin picking and baking, preserving the harvest, indoor growing during winter months, and developing growing plots at Bushmills Community Garden and Gaelscoil an Chaistil ahead of spring planting.
As the project progressed, pupils also explored topics including seeds, meadows, lambing, the life cycle from egg to chick, native plants, soil health, flowers and bees.
A highlight of the programme was the Tales and Tatties event held at Bushmills Courthouse in March, where pupils explored the cultural journey of the potato in Ireland and India through cooking, storytelling and creative activities. The session highlighted how food can connect cultures while deepening understanding of local and global food traditions and sustainable farming.
The project concluded with a celebratory picnic at Broughgammon Farm, where pupils sampled farm produce, enjoyed a bread-making demonstration by Ciara O’Hartghaile, and took part in a farm tour reflecting on their experiences and achievements.
Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust Project Officer Tiérna Mullan said: “Sow Grow Eat has been a fantastic opportunity for children to engage with nature, farming and food production in a meaningful way.
"Using a local working farm gave pupils a unique hands-on learning experience and helped them connect with local food heritage and sustainable farming practices. Throughout the year, they showed great enthusiasm and curiosity, building skills, confidence and friendships.
"The celebratory picnic was a wonderful way to recognise their achievements and thank everyone involved.”
Delivered by the Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust (CCGHT) on behalf of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council (CCGBC), the Nature and Environment project is supported by PEACEPLUS.