St. Clare's, Oxford

This week, the two University Foundation Course groups went on a study visit to the Oxford University FAI (Food Animal Initiative) farm.

This module, one of the main themes is food production, different farming methods and food marketing. The group were shown around the farm by a former colleague, Diane Horseman, who asked thought-provoking questions on the process of taking care of different animals, animal welfare and how farmers can reduce costs by choosing breeds which best suit their needs. The students were also interested in finding out about organic farming, the traceability of animal feed and GMOs.

The 1250 acre farm is home to free-range chickens, sheep, beef cattle, and pigs and, as the photos show, the spring lambs were a real hit, feeding eggs to the pigs and corn to the chickens was also great fun.

For many it was their first time on a farm and they commented on how it made them think about how we as consumers have a responsibility to purchase ethically produced food.