And age is certainly no barrier as young people from schools across South Lanarkshire have been learning all about producing their own food.

During visits to their local allotments Lesmahagow High School S6 pupils have been learning this priceless life skill, building on five years of Forest School classes where they learned to cook their own food outdoors and forage, as well as how to set up an all-weather camp.

They have also become beekeepers after gaining an SCQF Level 5 qualification.

Jacqueline Wallace, the council’s Head of Education (Primary and Early Years), said: “As part of their outdoor learning programme, the pupils said their visit not only made them feel ‘calmer and more chilled out’ but helped them better understand where food comes from as well as being surprised by the variety of vegetables that can be grown right on their doorstep.”

Some of the pupils left Brockettsbrae allotments keen to start growing food themselves and sharing their pesticide-free produce with the community while others said the visit had made them think more about nature, farming, and where food actually comes from.

As the school builds on its Outdoor Learning provision, horticulture is top of the agenda.

Teacher of Inclusion Stuart Rivans said, “We have been very fortunate to have senior management understand the huge impact of outdoor learning in supporting pupil wellbeing.”

“Being able to show children that they can grow fruit and vegetables themselves and do their own little bit for sustainability, perhaps donating them to the school canteen or to local residents - that would be tremendous for generating community spirit.”

If you want to know more about food growing and the many opportunities available right on your doorstep please go to our Food growing pages