Last month, Yeo Valley Organic welcomed Barley Close Community Primary School to its Somerset farm as one of the winners of Yeo Explore! Along with winning a term’s supply of delicious, organic yogurts for the school, the year 6 pupils were treated to a memorable Forest Day experience.
Launched last Autumn, Yeo Explore! was created to encourage children to eat well and immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. As part of the outdoorsy campaign, schools were given the chance to win their very own Forest Day experience. Nearly 200 schools took part, with Barley Close Community Primary School chosen following their deserving entry from teacher Sasha Heppner, who explained what it would mean to the students to win.
20 pupils aged ten and eleven years old immersed themselves in the wonders of nature, led by Yeo Valley Organic’s Education Team, Helen Woodward, and Les Davis. With fun at the heart of the day, the children experienced the Somerset countryside discovering wildflowers, meeting trees, and learning about the history of the Yeo Valley Farm, as well as enjoying sensory experiences and the role nature can play in wellbeing.
Speaking about the day, Evren Griffiths a teaching assistant at Barley Close Primary School, said:
“We are very proud to be part of this. We had a fantastic day here at Yeo Valley. The children really enjoyed it, it really took them out of their comfort zone and introduced them to nature in a different way and it was lovely to see how sustainable the farm is.
“It gave them a moment to relax and enjoy nature for what it is. Today, screen time takes over their lives. It was so lovely to turn off and just tune into nature.”
Through Yeo Explore! Yeo Valley Organic is passionate about supporting schools and their pupils every step of the way in their education journey, as well as nurturing healthier eating habits.
Talking about the day, Craig Dillon, Head of Sales for Wholesale and Foodservice at Yeo Valley Organic, said:
“Yeo Explore! was launched to support schools, give children access to outdoor experiences, as well as encourage learning and exploration. It’s been a fantastic day, seeing the pupils learn about sustainable farming and having fun – it really highlights just how valuable these experiences are.”
Exploring the beautiful Somerset countryside, the young adventurers learned about the Yeo Valley Farm and where their favourite yogurts come from. Established in 1961, today there are 2000 acres of farmland that is home to 400 organic cows all happily grazing on fresh grass to produce the dairy supplier’s quality milk.
Helen Woodward, part of the Education Team at Yeo Valley, said:
“It’s very important to us at Yeo Valley that children know where their food comes from. For the last 15 years, we have been going into schools and showing children, teachers and parents what farmers do to produce natural, healthy food. As a campaign, Yeo Explore! is so important for children. It’s not until you get the pupils outside that you can really see the value; they have a magical day that they take away and hold in their hearts forever.”
The Yeo Explore! prize also included a term’s supply of delicious Yeo Valley Organic Yogurt to enjoy. Loved by children and parents, the range includes delicious smooth and creamy one pot wonders that will satisfy little – and big – taste buds alike. Completely ‘bit-free’ and made from goodness-packed 100% Organic Yogurt, the school friendly range is a scrumptious way to fill rumbly tummies.
“At Yeo Valley, we are deeply committed to providing good food for everyone. Our primary focus is crafting delicious yogurts that students will truly enjoy. With the added benefit of organic goodness, there’s no compromise on flavour when choosing a nutritious diet. Our mission is to offer children nourishing products that support their physical growth and mental development.” Craig adds.
For 25 years, Yeo Valley Organic has been dedicated to nurturing and nourishing people and the planet alike by providing affordable organic food that promotes healthy and sustainable diets. Our school-friendly 80g pots are Food for Life accredited and come in a variety of delicious natural fruity flavours. Made from recycled materials and fully recyclable after use, Yeo Valley Organic is the top pick for schools with a taste for sustainability.
Yeo Explore! will continue into the new school year, with the second udderly deserving winner Melbourne Primary School in Melbourne, York receiving their prize this month.