Former Coronation Street favourite launches new school farm at Bebington (From Wirral Globe)

Former Coronation Street favourite launches new school farm at Bebington

12:31pm Wednesday 13th March 2013 in News By Stephanie Cureton

FORMER Coronation Street star-turned-cheesemaker Sean Wilson launched a new Wirral school farm this week.

The actor, who played Martin Platt in the hit soap, dropped into Bebington High School on Tuesday to officially open the project which is the country’s 100th school farm.

Following his departure from the television show, Sean set up his own cheese company and spoke to students about the importance of local produce.

The farm, which follows in the footsteps of Woodchurch High School, features goats, pigs, chickens and sheep as well as vegetables and plants.

And there are plans for students to launch their own business venture through the farm.

Headteacher Brian Jordan said: “The launch went exceptionally well and everyone was very impressed with what we had to offer. I have been wanting to do this for nine years so to finally have a farm here is amazing.

“We’re hoping the project will give our students a better understanding of ethical farming and a reconnection with the natural world. We’re planning to supply the school canteen with food when we can and also with cooking classes.

“Pupils will also be drawing up their own business plans to sell things like hanging baskets in our local community.”

Among the courses being offered in connection with the farm is horticulture and animal care studies, while there are plans to develop the subjects into post-16 learning.