Year 10 students from embarked on an exciting and insightful careers trip to Hadlow College and Green Oak Farm “Roots to the Moon”, gaining first-hand experience of the diverse opportunities within land-based industries.
At Hadlow College, near Tonbridge, students explored the extensive campus and discovered a wide range of courses designed to prepare young people for careers in agriculture, animal care, and environmental industries. The visit included tours of specialist facilities where students observed motor mechanics, woodwork and carpentry, equine studies, and animal management in action.
A standout moment of the day was meeting the incredible variety of animals cared for by students at the college. From llamas, sheep, goats and horses to birds, ferrets, meerkats, giant tortoises, chinchillas, snakes, and fish, the experience brought learning to life and highlighted the practical nature of these career pathways.
Staff at Hadlow College were highly impressed with the visiting students, commenting on their smart appearance and exemplary manners. Their politeness and respectful attitude were praised throughout the visit, reflecting positively on the school community.
The trip continued at Green Oak Farm, “Roots to the Moon,” an organic and biodynamic farm in Robertsbridge. Here, students explored sustainable farming practices, learning how the farm operates without chemicals and instead relies on natural cycles where everything is reused and recycled—from crops and animals to compost and waste systems.
Students met sheep, pigs, cows, and chickens, and even had the opportunity to feed them. The farm owner shared valuable insights into the wide range of careers connected to farming, highlighting that many roles extend beyond traditional farming and are essential to the success of modern agricultural businesses.