Some of our Y3/4 pupils visited Cranston’s Cumbrian Food Hall in February to learn about their food's journey from farm to fork. The visit was part of a wider project aimed at educating the children on all aspects of the food chain, including farming, food miles and healthy eating.

Food Hall Manager and master butcher Alan Brown gave the children a tour of the Food Hall, stopping to talk with staff from The Fish Cellar and James Fruit and Vegetables, who operate concessions at the Food Hall, as well as Cranstons butchery and delicatessen counters. He gave a talk on food issues and answered questions about the company's processes and the farmers Cranston’s work with, before giving the pupils a hands-on master class in burger-making using beef from local farms.

Alan said, “The children had a brilliant time talking to our in-house fish monger and seeing some of the spectacular fare they have to offer, and really enjoyed the messy business of making burgers which they took home for their tea! I was really impressed by their overall knowledge - it was great to see so much enthusiasm and interest and we were delighted to see them enjoy the visit so much.”

Mrs Greenwood said, “The children really enjoyed visiting Cranston’s Food Hall. They learned about the family's local sourcing of meat, plus food miles and Fairtrade products. It is really important given the recent horsemeat scandal that our young people understand where their food comes from and that they can trust quality local suppliers. Alan and the Cranston’s staff were very helpful and knowledgeable, and our pupils came away with plenty of information to help them with their project.”