About Us

How it all started

Creating a brighter future for all through food, farming, and countryside education.

The Food & Farming Discovery Trust (FFDT) was established in 2017 by a group of passionate individuals and organisations dedicated to inspiring learning about food, farming, and the countryside.

Our mission is to connect young people with the land, helping everyone understand where their food comes from, how it’s produced, and the importance of caring for our environment. By supporting educational initiatives and partnerships across schools, farms, and communities, we aim to nurture curiosity, respect, and responsibility for the farming world.

We work with lots of amazing sponsors and partners, who all in turn make our valuable work possible.

Connecting Young People with the Journey from Field to Fork

Through collaboration, innovation, and hands-on experiences, the Trust works to bridge the gap between consumers and producers, encouraging sustainable practices and a deeper appreciation of agriculture’s role in our everyday lives.

Together, we’re growing knowledge and cultivating a brighter, more sustainable future for young people from early years through to sixth-form and college.

Inspiring the Next Generation

We’re passionate about helping young people discover the incredible range of careers within agriculture and the countryside.

Farming today is about much more than fields and livestock, it’s a dynamic industry that brings together science, technology, business, and the environment. From crop specialists and animal health experts to engineers, food technologists, conservationists, and digital innovators, there’s a role for every talent and ambition.

Through our work with schools, colleges, and industry partners, we provide hands-on learning experiences and real-life insights that showcase how exciting and essential careers in agriculture can be.

By opening minds and inspiring futures, we aim to grow the next generation of skilled, passionate professionals who will help shape a sustainable future for food and farming.

Awards & Bursaries

We are proud to offer a diverse range of bursaries and awards, including the JIF Bursary and the Bishops’ Award, created in partnership with organisations who share our commitment to nurturing potential.

These opportunities are designed not only to recognise dedication and achievement, but also to inspire ambition and open doors for young people, regardless of their background, circumstances, or starting point.

By removing financial barriers and celebrating excellence in all its forms, our bursaries and awards ensure that every young person has the chance to participate fully, grow confidently, and pursue their aspirations with meaningful support behind them.

Recent Projects

We’re proud to be delivering educational initiatives that inspire curiosity, spark discussion, and open doors to future careers.

The FFDT Network

Steffan Griffiths

Headmaster Norwich School

Frances Roberson

FFDT

Rachel Quick

Principal The Wherry School

Jordan Sharman

General Manager Norfolk Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group

Sue Penlington

Sustainability Manager Holkham Estate

Mark Nicholas

RNAA Managing Director

Jerry White

Principal & CEO City College Norwich

Catherine Richards

Principal East Norfolk Sixth Form

Our Pillars

Awareness

Improve understanding and awareness of farming, food production and land based industries in a changing world, particularly among young people.

Engagement

Give young people exposure to different stages of food production, including current STEM research and innovation.

Information

Inform young people about, and engage them with, agritech and land based careers.