Case study: From Seeds to Harvest
Photo acknowledgement: Marie Hannerstig, Studentlitteratur AB
- Primary
- Outdoor
- Gardening / school garden / allotment, Hands-on activity
- Sweden
From Seeds to Harvest
‘From Seeds to Harvest’ is an educational activity aimed at teaching primary school pupils about soil, biodiversity, and cultivation. Integrated into the school timetable, these lessons are designed to actively engage pupils in the farm-to-table process. By working collaboratively, being creative, and utilising their senses—such as smell, taste, and touch—pupils gain hands-on learning experiences.
The project is run by Vårfruskolan, a primary school in Lund Sweden, with support from various organisations. Initially, teachers received technical assistance from the local municipality to design the school allotment and underwent outdoor pedagogy training provided by the Nature School. The educational materials utilised were developed by the Swedish Society for Conservation of Nature, Sweden’s largest environmental NGO.
Objective
The objective of ‘From Seeds to Harvest’ is threefold: to educate pupils about the origins of their food, to foster an understanding of biodiversity, and to provide hands-on learning opportunities through collaborative class activities. These lessons emphasise the importance of soil and alternate between theoretical and practical exercises, teaching a range of knowledge and skills to the pupils.
Approach
The objective of ‘From Seeds to Harvest’ is threefold: to educate pupils about the origins of their food, to foster an understanding of biodiversity, and to provide hands-on learning opportunities through collaborative class activities. These lessons emphasise the importance of soil and alternate between theoretical and practical exercises, teaching a range of knowledge and skills to the pupils.