To ensure that all visitors have a fun and educational experience it is important to remember that the Lancashire Farm Education Centre is sited on a working farm.  It is therefore important that all visitors read and understand the conduct on the farm policy. 

Pupils and staff will be briefed on the important rules and information on arrival, however, it is also recommended that these are shared prior to the visit to make sure that everyone gets the best experience.

A pre-visit to the farm is strongly advised to assist in the planning process and allows an opportunity to see the farm and discuss all aspects of the visit.

• All visitors should wear outdoor activity wear, appropriate to the weather conditions. No school uniforms please.
• Wellies or boots are the most suitable footwear, especially in the winter months.
• Gloves should not be worn on the farm due to risk of contamination.
• All pupils should walk behind or follow the directions given by the deliverer. The deliverer knows the route around the farm and will follow the safest route.
• Groups must stay together.
• If the deliverer shouts ‘STOP’ or blows a whistle everyone must stop still and await further instruction. Again, this is precautionary and designed only to aid safety on the farm.
• Pupils should remember that farms are not playgrounds. There is always space to let off steam at lunch time so the farm and buildings should be viewed as the ‘classroom’ and the designated area the ‘playground’.
• No running or shouting near the animals as its their home and it can spook them.
• Look after the farm and any equipment used.
• School staff to inform deliverer if they need to leave the main group for any reason i.e. toilets.
• The Lancashire Farm Education Centre will follow guidance in “Industry Code of Practice – Preventing and Controlling Ill Health from Animal Contact at Visitor Attractions Industry_Code_of_Practice_-_2021.pdf and the How to plan curriculum linked and safe visits to farm: A Handbook from Teacher by LEAF how-to-plan-curriculum-linked-and-safe-visits-to-farms-final.pdf (countrysideclassroom.org.uk).
• Lots of hand washing.
• We will provide time for toileting, lunch and snacks.
• To listen well and ask loads of questions!
• To have the best time!

We do need the schools to ensure that they have enough ‘staff to pupil’ ratio and that one of the staff members is first aid trained. 

The above rules are set out so everyone can enjoy their lesson on the farm and get the maximum benefit in a safe environment whilst learning at our working farm.