Exploring the Future of Food: Norfolk’s Food Security Conference is back for students
After the success of last year’s event, the Food Security Conference is back! Set to take place on Wednesday 26th November 2026, at the John Innes Conference Centre in Norwich, this free event is exclusively for 16+ sixth form and college students in Norfolk.
Hosted by the Food and Farming Discovery Trust (the education arm of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association ), this conference is set to feature eight dynamic talks from leading experts across various fields. From cutting-edge researchers to passionate industry professionals, these speakers will provide exclusive insights into the future of food production and the career opportunities waiting for the next generation of changemakers.
Thanks to the generous support of The Clan Trust and John Innes Foundation, this unique event is free for students to attend!
Deadline for booking is Friday 14th November.
Spaces are limited and we may have to close registration early once we reach capacity, early booking is strongly advised.
Why attend?
This year’s conference promises a packed agenda featuring expert speakers from across the agriculture and food sectors. Students will delve into critical topics such as:
- The key issues affecting UK food security, including water shortages, soil health, and land use.
- The impact of consumer choices on farming, food standards, and the environment.
- How science research and innovation is shaping the future of food and farming
- Career opportunities in agriculture, science, sustainability, and food policy through expert insight.
The day will be filled with engaging sessions, interactive discussions, and opportunities to network with professionals in the field.
Who should attend?
Food security is one of the most pressing global challenges, affecting every single one of us and connecting to many subject curriculum areas, in unique and vital ways.
Whether you are studying biology, uncovering how soil microbiomes and genetics shape resilient crops. Geography, examining land use and climate pressures, or environmental science, tackling sustainable farming practices, each subject brings powerful insights to the table. Agriculture, business, economics, and accounting frame the realities of production and markets, while law and politics shape the policies that govern food systems. Philosophy and sociology probe the ethics of food production, land use and our culture values for food. And computer science and maths collect and analyse the data which drive the efficiencies and innovations required to make future solutions possible. The conference invites teachers and students from across these fields to explore how their subjects not only contribute to understanding food security but also empower the next generation to address it together.
Deadline for booking is Friday 14th November
What’s on the agenda?
This full-day event features engaging presentations on everything from soil health and water management to the future of farming and land use planning. It’s designed to spark curiosity and inspire action among students whether they’re studying agriculture, geography, environmental science, or simply have a passion for sustainability while encouraging them to think critically about the challenges of feeding the world.
This event goes beyond a typical conference it’s an immersive learning experience designed to reshape how students understand the food they eat and the systems that sustain it. Students will walk away with:
- Awareness & Understanding: A deeper insight into the journey of food from farm to fork and the pressing challenges of food security in the UK and worldwide.
- Critical Thinking: The ability to examine how food production affects our environment, our society and our position on the global stage
- Informed Choices: Practical knowledge to make conscious decisions that support healthier, more sustainable food systems.
- Inspiration & Opportunity: Exposure to exciting career pathways in food security, agriculture, and sustainable development.
The Food Security Conference marks an important step in educating and inspiring the next generation of food-conscious leaders, ensuring that Norfolk’s students leave with the knowledge and passion to contribute to a more sustainable and secure food system.Book Your Place Now!
Bookings are now open for sixth forms and colleges, but spaces are limited. Teachers – don’t miss the chance to secure your students’ place at a day designed to spark curiosity, challenge thinking, and open doors to new opportunities.
Whether your students see themselves as future scientists, policymakers, or simply curious about the future of food, this conference is an unmissable opportunity to explore the key issues shaping our world.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday 26th November 2025
- Arrival: From 09:00
- Conference Opens: 10:00 (students must be seated before this time)
- Main Conference Ends: 14:00 – schools are free to depart if required
- Optional Networking Session: 14:00-15:00 to allow attendees to network with guest speakers and other industry professionals present at the conference.
- Location: John Innes Conference Centre, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7UH
- Cost: FREE
- Refreshments & Lunch: Included for both students and staff
- How to Book: Click here to register your details
Booking deadline: Friday 14th November but tickets are limited and going fast! We may have to close registration early once we reach capacity, so early booking is strongly advised.
Deadline for booking is Friday 14th November.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to engage with experts, expand your knowledge, and be part of the conversation about the future of food security.
Join us and be part of the next generation driving sustainable food solutions.Book Your Place Now!
This project is part of the Food & Farming Discovery Trust’s ongoing commitment to inspiring young minds about the future of food, farming, and sustainability. For more information on our educational programmes, visit www.ffdt.co.uk.