Inspiring the Next Generation of Potato Lovers

This year’s Grow Your Own Potatoes (GYOP) initiative has had another fantastic impact - over 210,000 children were reached with 7,100 kits distributed to schools in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Since its launch in 2004 GYOP has evolved into one of the UK's largest food education programmes for primary schools. Aimed at educating children about food origins, healthy eating, and sustainable practices through hands-on potato growing, over six million children have participated since its inception.

Branston is proud to play a key role in supporting GYOP by providing sponsorship alongside other key players in the potato industry, since it became self-funded back in 2022 after the closure of AHDB Potatoes.

Each year, GYOP provides free growing kits and curriculum-linked resources to schools. ​It is a brilliant hands-on learning experience: inclusive, practical and genuinely enjoyable for all. The nature of the programme makes it particularly beneficial to children with additional needs and those who learn best through hands-on activities. No gardening experience is required – it is simple to deliver, accessible and fun for every class.

“GYOP opens the door for all children to grow, learn and explore — whatever their starting point. Watching them gain confidence through something as simple as planting and nurturing a potato is incredibly rewarding.”
– Sue Lawton, GYOP Project Manager

This year in particular, increased feedback and competition entries has indicated growing engagement from schools. The 2025 kit placed an additional focus on supporting wildlife alongside growing potatoes. ​Each kit included two potato varieties and a small pack of wildflower seeds. ​The instructional leaflet provided tips for growing, pollinator-friendly gardening, and classroom activities. ​QR codes linked to additional resources on the GYOP website, enhancing the educational experience. ​

Prizes were awarded for the heaviest yield, with Kingfisher Primary School winning the national prize with a yield of 5000g. ​This year a new Best Photo Challenge was introduced, showcasing students' gardening experiences and the connection to nature and pollinators. ​We are proud to continue supporting this impactful programme – helping to nurture curiosity, food literacy and a love of growing in the next generation.

Find out more and sign your school up for next year’s competition by visiting the GYOP website - www.growyourownpotatoes.org.uk