As a budding farmer, Sheamie Garrihy had the opportunity to open the Lidl Farm, located in Lidl’s regional distribution centre in Newbridge, Co Kildare.
Since its launch in October 2022, the farm has welcomed over 4,000 school children and 400 teachers from primary schools across Ireland.
The Lidl Farm, developed by its official education partner Agri Aware and key supplier Meade Farm, provides students with insights into how many products are grown and harvested locally.
Students participate in a combination of hands-on activities and discussions to see how crops are grown and learn about practices of livestock farming.
Each tour ends with a train ride through the regional distribution centre, where students learn about the retailer’s quality check processes and how fruit and vegetables are stored.
Launch
Speaking at the Lidl Farm launch, Sheamie said: “While I’d know my way around a farm, I wouldn’t know how everything is stored in the warehouse and how it gets delivered to Lidl stores, so the train ride through the warehouse was a highlight for me.
“Thanks to Lidl for having me and, when you go to the farm yourself, tell them Sheamie sent you.”
Commenting on the Lidl Farm, Agri Aware chair Shay Galvin said: “The Agri Aware partnership with the farm is brimming with positivity for agriculture, giving children firsthand learning about where their food comes from.
“School tours are completely free of charge and they only need to cover transport costs, making this an affordable school trip."
Tours run on the Lidl Farm twice a year - from March to June and from September to October.
To learn more and for schools to register an interest in visiting, please visit thelidlfarm.abettertomorrow-lidl.ie.