Our News
Grow Your Own Potatoes Project Expands to Northern Ireland
Introduction
We are thrilled to share the exciting news that the Grow Your Own Potatoes (GYOP) project is extending its offering to Northern Ireland! After years of successful implementation across various regions in Great Britain, we are excited to launch a pilot project for schools in Northern Ireland in 2024.
Overview of the Project
The GYOP project is a renowned educational initiative designed to engage primary school students in the fascinating journey of growing their own potatoes. Through hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences, students gain valuable insights into agriculture, food production, and healthy eating habits.
In partnership with McCreight Potatoes Ltd from Co Down and with generous sponsorship through Natural World Products we have a limited number of free potato growing kits available for primary schools across Northern Ireland but timings are tight so you need to act NOW.
Pilot Project in 2024
In our pilot project for Northern Ireland, we are inviting a limited number of schools to participate and provide valuable feedback. This pilot phase will ensure that the project is effectively adapted to meet the unique needs and preferences of schools in Northern Ireland.
To be part of this pilot and receive your FREE potato growing kit, containing two varieties of seed potatoes (varieties to be confirmed) and instruction leaflet, simply:
- Be among the first 250 schools to fill in the online registration form. Registration closes 20th February
- Commit to carrying out the project according to the provided instructions.
- Provide honest feedback at the end of the project, which will shape its success and future rollout in 2025.
The registration deadline is 20th February, so don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity for your class to receive a FREE Potato Growing Kit, complete with two varieties of seed potatoes - (varieties TBC) and instruction leaflet.
In addition to the kits, the project is complemented by downloadable classroom resources tailored to enhance learning across various subjects including Science, Geography, Home Economics, and Environmental Studies.
We are confident that the GYOP project will seamlessly integrate into your curriculum, providing invaluable hands-on learning experiences for your students.
Participating in the Grow Your Own Potatoes (GYOP) project offers numerous benefits to schools in Northern Ireland:
- Hands-on Learning: GYOP provides students with practical, hands-on experience in growing their own potatoes, fostering a deeper understanding of agriculture and food production.
- Curriculum Integration: The project aligns with various subjects such as Science, Geography, Home Economics, and Environmental Studies, making it a valuable addition to the curriculum.
- Engaging Activities: GYOP offers engaging activities that promote teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students.
- Environmental Awareness: By growing their own potatoes, students learn about sustainable farming practices and the importance of environmental conservation.
- Healthy Eating Education: GYOP encourages students to appreciate the benefits of fresh, locally grown produce, promoting healthy eating habits.
- Community Engagement: Participating schools become part of a wider community of GYOP participants, fostering connections and sharing experiences with other schools.
- Feedback and Evaluation: Schools have the opportunity to provide feedback on the project, shaping its future iterations and ensuring its relevance and effectiveness.
Overall, the GYOP project offers a unique and enriching educational experience that benefits both students and schools in Northern Ireland.
If you are interested in becoming part of the partnership or would like more information, please get in touch:
Sue Lawton - Programme Manager
Tel - 07792 209478
We will answer your questions as soon as possible. Note this is not live chat or 24 hours.
The reply will come from sue@ growyourownpotatoes .org.uk please add to your safe list.
Your details will only be used to answer your query, you will NOT be signed up to receive a Grow Your Own Pack by filling this form in.
18 years of interactive potato growing fun, let's work together to keep this going.
Over 6 million children have taken part, learning all about potatoes. Who will do this if GYOP ends?
At its height GYOP was in 75% of all primary schools - schools that are still keen to keep growing and taking part.
Potential to reach 500,000+ children each year, working together we can do this and have an educated next generation.
