Leeds Schools Invited to Join Food Growing Programme

Local primary and special schools encouraged to participate in Young Marketeers

Leeds primary and special schools are being invited to take part in the Young Marketeers food growing programme during the 2026–27 academic year. The initiative, run by the charity School Food Matters, aims to provide children with practical experience in growing fruit and vegetables and selling their produce at community markets.

Programme aims and activities

Young Marketeers offers hands-on gardening and outdoor learning opportunities, allowing pupils to develop practical skills and gain a better understanding of where their food comes from and how it is cultivated. The programme culminates in a market day event, where children sell the fruit, vegetables, herbs, and plants they have grown at school.

Last year’s Leeds Market Day was held at Kirkgate Market, where participating pupils had the chance to showcase and sell their harvest. Teachers involved in the programme noted positive changes in the children’s confidence and engagement. One teacher commented, “I’ve never seen them so animated,” while another observed, “These kids… they’re so confident here. They’re different children in class. You don’t always have to be in the classroom.”

Participation details

• The Young Marketeers programme is fully funded, meaning there is no cost for schools to take part.
• It is targeted at schools with above-average levels of free school meal eligibility.
• Schools interested in joining the programme can find more information on the School Food Matters website.
• Enquiries and expressions of interest can be sent via email to sophie@schoolfoodmatters.org.

The initiative provides an educational opportunity that combines food growing, business skills, and community engagement for young learners in Leeds.

Source: Doing Good Leeds