The Nottinghamshire County Show has celebrated a major success in inspiring the next generation, as a significant increase in school participation took centre stage at this year’s event hosted at Newark Showground in May.
A new School Resource Pack, introduced to strengthen educational engagement and bring farming and countryside topics into the classroom, proved hugely successful.
The free resource pack featured curriculum-linked activities, teacher resources and ten competitions designed to encourage children to learn more about agriculture, food production and rural life.
A new resource pack for schools, introduced to strengthen educational engagement, saw entries rise dramatically from 30 last year to 270 entries across 13 local schools in 2026 – marking a substantial step forward in the show’s ongoing mission to educate young people about where their food comes from.
The programme culminated in a special prizegiving ceremony at the Nottinghamshire County Show, attended by Madam Chairman Jan Gould of Nottinghamshire County Council and Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society Deputy President Angela Hardstaff. Students were recognised for their creativity, knowledge and enthusiasm.
In total, 17 children received individual awards, alongside three school prizes.
Megan Tomlinson, a teacher at Sutton-on-Trent Primary School, said: “Everyone who attended the show had an incredible experience and the children were absolutely delighted to collect the school prize on stage.
Both pupils and staff were extremely impressed to hear how many entries had been received from schools across the county, and we will definitely be entering again next year.”
Alongside the school awards, 13 students were also awarded agricultural educational grants by the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society to support their future careers in the agricultural sector.
The grants help students who are currently studying in Nottinghamshire and those intending to return to the county after completing their studies to pursue careers in agriculture and related industries.
Recipients are undertaking courses in subjects including agriculture, wildlife conservation and other land-based disciplines. The grants will provide financial support towards professional licences, qualifications and training opportunities, helping to enhance career prospects and open further opportunities within the sector.
Organised by the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society, the show continues to play a vital role in connecting young people with agriculture and rural life.
Elizabeth Halsall, event manager, said: “The growth of the School Resource Pack has been incredible to see.
“Inspiring young people to understand where their food comes from is at the heart of what we do, and this year’s response shows just how important that message is.
“It’s about creating a lasting connection between the next generation and the countryside, whilst also supporting those looking to build careers within the agricultural sector.”
This year’s show also demonstrated strength across its agricultural roots, with the cattle section returning to full capacity following last year’s restrictions caused by Bluetongue virus.
The sheep section saw exceptional growth, with more than 500 entries and the introduction of new breeds including Dutch Spotted sheep, while goats made a welcome return to the showground.
In the main ring, the grand parade brought together champion livestock including heavy horses, cattle, pigs and goats, offering a powerful celebration of farming excellence in Nottinghamshire.
Beyond the competition rings, the show delivered a vibrant day for visitors, with standout moments including the popular Make, Bake & Grow classes, impressive floral art displays, and engaging countryside attractions such as farriery demonstrations, beekeeping and the ferret show.
Despite ongoing challenges within the farming industry, positivity remained strong throughout the event, highlighted by a sold-out breakfast meeting that brought together members of the agricultural community.
Sir Mark Spencer, this year’s President, was praised as a strong ambassador for both the show and the wider farming community, helping to champion the importance of agriculture across the region.
The show was made possible thanks to the dedication of over 300 volunteers, judges and stewards, whose commitment ensured the smooth running of the event.
With visitor numbers matching last year’s figures of 16,000, organisers are now reflecting on a highly successful event that combined education, community spirit and agricultural excellence.
Elizabeth added: “Seeing so many families enjoying the day, alongside the incredible level of school engagement, has been a real highlight. The show is all about celebrating the very best of rural life in Notts while inspiring future generations, and this year truly delivered on that.”
