When we arrived, we were introduced to John Fairley who is the owner of the family run dairy farm. He showed us the feeding area for the cattle and explained the different breeds. It was very clear that the family strive to ensure their cattle are looked after, even the farm dog Evie was really happy and friendly to see us. John explained the importance and expense of farm machinery and how they help them perform tasks on the farm. We then went into the factory kitchen where we saw the processing plant, we got to see the large vats, milk lines, bottling facility, and date marking machines. We learnt about homogenisation and pasteurisation and how these processes ensure milk is safe and enjoyable to drink. We got to sample homogenised and unhomogenised milk, yoghurt and butter produced by Country Valley Milk. Their main competitor in the industry is Dairy Farmers, but Country Valley strive for quality produce on a smaller scale. It is important that we support small local business. 

We would like to thank the Fairley family for allowing us onto their site. It was a really interesting and valuable experience for us. Thank you to Mrs Reader and Mrs Pollicina for taking us. 

Steffanie, Summer, Aleksia and Brooke - Year 9 Food Technology Students