Young engineers in making: Farm visits inspire children to explore agricultural machinery
1st March 2025
The roar of an engine, the gleam of a freshly oiled tractor, and the precision of modern machinery—these are just some of the elements that ignite children’s curiosity when they step onto a working farm with The Country Trust.
Through hands-on farm visits, the national education charity is bringing the fascinating world of agricultural machinery to life for thousands of young minds, fostering a love for engineering and technology in the process.
Tractors, combines and specialist equipment play a vital role in modern farming, but for many children, especially those from urban backgrounds and areas of high deprivation.
The participants have an opportunity to see and experience these machines up close is rare. The Country Trust’s farm visits bridge this gap, offering children the chance to explore how machinery shapes the food they eat and the environment around them.
Children learn about innovation, problem-solving, and engineering
During the visits, children meet real farmers and machinery operators, learning firsthand about the mechanics, innovation, and problem-solving required to keep a farm running.
They see how GPS technology enhances precision farming, how different attachments transform tractors into multi-purpose tools, and how engineering advancements are improving sustainability. For some, it is their first introduction to the idea that agricultural technology is a career path within their reach.
Tom, a farmer and Country Trust host, shared his experience: “When children step into a cab and see how complex yet essential these machines are, their excitement is incredible.
“They ask thoughtful questions about how things work, and you can see that spark of curiosity turning into inspiration. These visits show them that farming isn’t just about growing crops—it’s about innovation, problem-solving, and engineering.”
Building the next generation of agriculture workers
The Country Trust explained that by enabling children to engage with agricultural machinery in a real-world setting, it is helping to build the next generation of engineers, mechanics, and agricultural innovators.
Many children leave a farm visit seeing tractors not just as vehicles, but as the heart of a sophisticated and evolving industry—one they may one day be part of.
The Country Trust relies on donations to run these farm visits and its other programmes, which help connect children with farming, food, and the countryside.
Learn more and support The Country Trust here.
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