Former Coronation Street star to launch Wirral school farm (From Wirral Globe)

Former Coronation Street star to launch Wirral school farm

9:11am Thursday 21st February 2013 in News By Stephanie Cureton

WIRRAL pupils are set to grow their own food, with the help of a former soap star.

Bebington High Sports College will become the country's 100th school farm and have announced plans to produce organic meat and vegetables for school meals and cookery classes.

The project, which will start from March 12, will be launched by ex-Coronation Street star Sean Wilson who played Martin Platt in the hit soap.

Following his departure from the soap, Sean set up his own cheese company and will speak to students about the importance of locally sourced food.

It is also hoped that students will sell any extra produce in a bid to boost their business skills.

Headteacher Brian Jordan said: "Our vision is to help young people today to know where food is sourced, how it is grown and the care needed to ensure the animals have a good life before they end up on our table.

"Our farm project aims to educate all our students to care about animals, food production and ultimately themselves and the environment.

"In addition students will gain useful qualifications for life and their future careers. I would like to thank the Co-operative, Tesco, Wirral Farmers market and Brantano for their continued financial support."

New and established farms are given support by the School Farms Network (SFN). Co-ordinated by the Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens, it provides advice and information for new and existing school farms.

SFN co-ordinator Ian Egginton-Metters said: "Educational attainment has been shown to increase in schools where a farm is in operation.

"In addition to the strengthening of wellbeing and citizenship that outdoor team work generates, the farm can also be used as a hands-on resource for all teachers."