Engaging with communities

12 noon-1:00pm in the Symington Suite

The Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) is a charity that provides world-class learning opportunities about farming, food production, the outdoors and the countryside (including forestry, estate management and environmental awareness) for young people and teachers in Scotland.

As a result of RHET, Scotland’s young people have an enhanced and practical understanding of Scotland’s rural environment, the dynamic nature of food, farming and countryside activities and its vital contribution to sustaining and enhancing Scotland’s economy and way of life.

RHET’s programme of activity is delivered by staff, trained project coordinators and over 1000 volunteers.  We also work with a range of partners including farmers, food producers and industry bodies.

Sara Smith, Learning and Development Co-ordinator, Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) – Sara’s current role involves developing and implementing the teacher training programme and other education initiatives, linking to LfS, outdoor learning and wider educational initiatives.  This involves resource production, delivery and partnership working.

She engages with many cross Scotland initiatives including the Good Food Champions training programme, outdoor learning partnerships and is actively involved in LfS.

Open Farm Sunday is an annual event run each June, supported and promoted by Linking Environment and Farming (LEAF). Across the UK, hundreds of farms connect with thousands of visitors to showcase food and farming. Smallholders are in a unique position to support these links.

Rebecca Dawes is the Scottish Co-ordinator for Open Farm Sunday; she and her family farm in Kinross and have been involved with the event for many years. We’re delighted to welcome her to the Festival as part of this doubleheader with RHET to explain how you can engage with your local community for mutual benefit.

Full programme of events