Robotic fruit picking was one of the demonstrations enjoyed by primary school pupils when Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) Writtle hosted the Essex Schools Food and Farming Day towards the end of June.
Around 3,000 pupils from 72 primary schools across the county enjoyed the day, organised by the Essex Agricultural Society, to provide a hands-on, interactive experience aimed at teaching children how food travels from the farm to their plates.
Activities and demonstrations took place around six themed zones covering livestock, machinery, food, crops, countryside and environment and, for the first time this year, rural safety and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Children were able to meet farm animals, watch tractors and combine harvesters in action, learn about robotic fruit picking and sample locally grown produce.
The annual event is aimed at inspiring curiosity about food production, sustainability, and healthy eating while highlighting potential careers in agriculture and environmental science.
Professor Roderick Watkins, Vice Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said: “We enjoyed welcoming so many schoolchildren to our fantastic campus at ARU Writtle, and we were proud to work with the Essex Agricultural Society on what proved to be a fascinating and educational day.”
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