Cowdray Model Farm

*Cowdray Model Farm is now closed until the Spring*

Cowdray Model Farm
Cowdray Model Farm is situated in the Ancient Parkland at Cowdray Park in rural Midhurst, West Sussex. Sitting in the heart of the South Downs National Park the farm allows children to come and learn more about how their food is produced and experience the sheer joy of being in the countryside.
The farm is open to the public at weekends and bank holidays between Easter and October from 10.30am – 4pm (last entry 3.30pm) and is available to host school and group visits during the week by appointment.

Farm tours commence at 11.30, 1pm and 2.30pm
What's going on down on the Farm

Farming in action Cowdray Model Farm consists of 35 acres and demonstrates the farming cycle for livestock and arable crops as well as a pond and conservation area. The work on the farm is continuous, so there is always something to see and to learn about on the farm.

 
Dairy cows are grazed on the farm and children can see them being milked during their visit. The life of the dairy cow will be explained in detail, and the children will see how their milk makes the journey from the field to the fridge.

In addition, children will see and learn about beef cattle, chickens, ponies and other livestock on the farm. Animal welfare is central to our farming and there is a strong emphasis on the day to day care of the animals and their overall well-being.

We have 3 very friendly Eriskay ponies on the farm. These ponies are a rare breed originally from the Western isles of Scotland. We have a mother and foal called Nonie and Padraig and Ishca who is just over a year old.

Organic and traditional farming methods
Cowdray Model Farm is a new farm that is farmed according to organic methods. It will take several years to achieve certification from the Soil Association because the land is 'in conversion' and that takes time. Children can learn about traditional and organic farming methods and come to understand the differences.

 
The children will be asked questions to check their understanding of the information and to ensure they are engaged in the learning. The aim is to stimulate their imagination and curiosity.

The learning process
A farm visit provides an opportunity for practical experience of a specific aspect of the curriculum. Mathematics, ICT, geography and many other subjects can be woven into a farm visit.

We welcome a pre visit by teachers to discuss the areas of focus for a particular class. Activities can encompass field study and data collection, drawing, photography and quizzes, to mention just a few.
Every opportunity can be taken to bring the children into close proximity with nature to stimulate their minds. The farming equipment is also a source of learning. A variety of implements and tractors offer a basis for learning about machinery and other technology and historically related subjects.
For younger children the ability to go beyond sight and sound, and to touch and smell the things they are seeing - from lambs to wheat ears - adds extra depth to their experience.

From farming to food


Harvesting turns attention to the next step of the food chain - processing and going to market. During their visit, children will learn about all the steps in the food chain and the relationship between farming and food will be emphasised.

The Cowdray Farm Shop & Cafe, alongside the farm, offers an opportunity for children to see where the produce from the farm is marketed to the consumer.
The fact that the produce can be bought brings home to the children that their food does come from the land and reinforces the learning for the day.

The farm is just over an hour from London, Brighton and Southampton and there is plenty of parking for coaches. Contact us for more information or for bookings: 01730 812089 enquiries@cowdraymodelfarm.co.uk