School Programs

Part of our mission at Fairgate Farm is to provide educational opportunities to our school aged children from pre-K through high school, and beyond.

Fairgate Farm offers formal school tours that include a brief introduction to the planting lifecycle and an in depth look at what we’re currently growing. We will take a peek at our new beehives, visit our compost station and see what’s growing in our hydroponic greenhouse. We also offer a more hands-on-experience where we get our hands dirty preparing the soil, planting, weeding, watering and harvesting an incredible variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, including many that might be unfamiliar to you. For those groups desiring an even more in depth experience of organic farming, four outdoor additional classes are offered, as follows:

What it means to be Organic: We learn about no-till soil management, crop rotation, the importance of heritage seeds, the benefits of companion planting, natural pest control and bee friendly flowers.
Soil Health and Composting: We take a look at the planting life cycle and the importance of soil health. We explore the art of composting and the most efficient methods to generate “black gold.”
Healthy Eating: This class will talk about the nutritional benefits of eating a variety of fruits and vegetables. We’ll discuss recognizing the quality of good food, the importance of eating what’s in season and making healthy choices. You’ll have the opportunity to taste what is in season!
Hydroponics and Greenhouse Essentials: Our greenhouse is vitally important to Fairgate’s farming season. Learn how we grow seedlings, keep our lettuce crops growing in the cooler months and how to grow greens without soil.

Each of our educational experiences lasts from 45 minutes to one hour. However, we are more than happy to tailor the time and content to meet the needs and schedule of your group.

We welcome school aged children from pre-school through high school. Please contact Farm Manager Pete Novajosky (pnovajosky@charteroakcommunities.org or 203-940-2305) or Outreach Coordinator Heidi Andersen (handersen@charteroakcommunities.org or 475-333-1362) if you would like more information or to schedule an educational event.

We welcome donors and sponsors to help us provide these programs to the community.

“The first time I visited Fairgate Farm was during a community day that Westhill Agriscience Program attended. During this time, we weeded beds in order to prepare for the season. Several months later, I found out about an internship program that I was hired for. This position was one of the most rewarding I have ever had!”

– Catherine Caragine, 2019 Eichler Heart of Gold Scholarship Recipient (pictured above left)