A LITTLE ABOUT OURSELVES

We, Mark (36) and Birgit (35) started farming at Maes-y-beran in 2000. The farm was previously run by Mark’s farther and his grandfather before that. Before returning to Wales we both lived and worked in Germany for several years, including a year spent on an educational organic farm where school children would stay for a week and take part in all aspects of farming. Previously Birgit worked in a national park, where she gained a recognised qualification as a leader of children's environmental activities, while Mark worked in Stuttgart University where he had considerable teaching responsibilities.

The farm comprises species rich hay meadows along side the river Honddu, unimproved and semi improved pastures on the valley sides and has a large area of native broadleaf woodland on the steepest slope going up to the top of the Black Mountains.We have constructed a number of ponds on the farm and actively manage a number of other habitats for the benefit of wildlife. Visitors are welcome to view the more interesting features by following a sign-posted trail around the farm. In addition to our sheep and cattle the farm is also home to many species of birds, mammals, plants and invertebrates, including some that are quite rare. We also have a large garden, an orchard, a pony, a few chickens, and of course our sheep dogs, Rover, Booty, Doc and Bronwen.

As a living class-room the farm environment offers a multitude of possibilities to enrich   your children's experience and can be used as a resource to meet targets in almost all areas of the National Curriculum. If you would like to find out more about the kind of things we can offer please contact us for a chat or arrange to come and meet us in advance in order to prepare a programme. Some examples of possible activities on the farm include; guided tours together with the farmer, following marked trails with observation and identification opportunities, learning about livestock and its management, map work, experiencing seasonal farming activities such as shearing, lambing, haymaking, etc., project work, sketching and photography, and many others.

In addition we would ask that you ensure that everyone in your group is aware of and adheres to the countryside code while visiting our farm. Finally you should ensure that all members of your group are appropriately dressed for a farm visit in the hills. This means waterproof outer garments and strong boots or wellingtons. Toilets and hand washing facilities are available on request and it is strongly recommended that all visitors wash there hands after any visit and before eating following any contact with farm animals, fences, gates, etc,. For more information on any of the aspects listed above please contact us prior to your visit.