St. Fintan's pupils celebrate successful first year of food and horticulture project

An innovative Food and Horticultural Project at St. Fintan's National School in Taghmon has completed a successful first year, helping pupils learn where their food comes from through hands-on gardening, cooking and outdoor learning.

The initiative was developed by Ann Marie Laffan of Wexford County Council and funded through the Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme after Principal Willie Cleary identified a growing disconnect between children and food production.

Initially involving fifth and sixth class pupils and the school's autism classes, the programme proved so popular that it was expanded to include every class. Each class was given its own growing bed in a purpose-built greenhouse, allowing pupils to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers while learning about horticulture and healthy eating.

Weekly sessions were led by horticultural tutor Catherine George, with support from Community Food and Nutrition Worker Sarah Shiggins of FDYS. Throughout the year, pupils also took part in a series of educational visits, including trips to a local farm near Wellingtonbridge, Saltrock Dairy, Courtown Woods and Tara Hill Honey, where they learned about farming, food production, biodiversity and beekeeping.

The programme also included dedicated outdoor experiences for the school's autism classes, including equine-assisted activities.

Cathaoirleach of the Rosslare Municipal District, Cllr Frank Staples, praised the initiative, describing it as "a wonderful example of what can be achieved when schools, local communities and organisations work together."

Project organiser Ann Marie Laffan said the aim was to give children practical life skills while encouraging healthy eating and a greater appreciation of nature, farming and their local community.

Organisers say the project has strengthened links between the school and the wider community while giving pupils valuable lifelong skills and a deeper understanding of food, sustainability and the environment.