This week, Advent’s Fifth and Sixth Graders spent several days at The Farm School in Athol. This annual event is a popular and memorable experience, but what’s Farm School like? Here’s a glimpse into a day in the life of a working farm.
Their adventure began bright and early at 6:15 a.m. with morning chores! Students divided into groups to care for the animals, tackle bunk chores, and head out on a "Wild Walk" to explore the woods surrounding the farm. From the start, everyone embraced the opportunity to take responsibility and contribute to the farm community.
After chores, students gathered for breakfast, enjoying scrambled eggs and oatmeal with plenty of fun toppings. The eggs were especially meaningful: students had collected them from the farm the day before and helped crack and prepare them that morning!
Following breakfast, students enjoyed free-choice time, visiting their favorite animals, painting rocks, playing baseball, and exploring new corners of the farm with friends.
Then it was time to get to work! Students tackled a variety of projects, including repairing fences, preparing vegetables for upcoming meals, collecting and chopping wood for the bonfire, and harvesting and bagging parsnips for community donation. Others climbed to the top of the barn to collect hay and used wheelbarrows to replenish the animals' supply. Each job called for teamwork, problem-solving, and a willingness to try something new.
The group also welcomed a special visitor: Mr. Wharton! Students were excited to show him around and share what they had been learning. He joined right in with the farm work, even helping chop wood!
Throughout the day, students also had plenty of time to explore the farm, play with friends, and visit the animals. The animals have definitely been a favorite, and the kids have loved getting to spend so much time with them. The pigs were a big hit, and the students even got to name them! Students also had the chance to walk Rosa the horse and help let the cows out of the barn. There has definitely been no shortage of animal time around here!
Perhaps the most rewarding part of the experience has been watching students discover just how capable they are. Fifth and Sixth Graders have demonstrated remarkable independence, leadership, and courage as they take on unfamiliar responsibilities and learn new skills. Whether building fencing for the chickens, using farm tools, or caring for animals, students have been willing to step outside their comfort zones and give new challenges a try. These experiences are building confidence and helping students recognize the important contributions they can make to a community.
Farm School has also created wonderful opportunities for students to strengthen friendships and make new connections. They have enjoyed spending time together, while also connecting with classmates they might not typically spend as much time with during the school day. Working side by side, exploring the farm, and sharing new experiences have brought students together in meaningful ways.
Their adventurous spirit has extended to mealtime, too! Students have been enthusiastic about trying new foods, with some memorable reviews. Two favorites: "My favorite part of Farm School is trying all the food!" and "This is the best burrito bowl I've ever had in my life...better than Chipotle!"
After a busy day, students enjoyed grilled cheese sandwiches and minestrone soup, prepared with help from the kitchen work group. Following dinner, everyone worked together to build a bonfire and gathered around for s'mores. Once the treats were gone, students had a blast exploring the farm in the dark with their flashlights.
The evening wrapped up with a pajama fashion show, complete with impressive model walks, creative poses, and plenty of laughter before everyone headed off to bed.
Another memorable day at Farm School! Through new challenges, shared responsibilities, and plenty of opportunities to explore, the Fifth and Sixth Graders are discovering that courage means being willing to try, leadership means stepping up, and independence grows with each new experience.
We can't wait to see what they bring home from this adventure!
