F2S programs differ by school, but include the following core elements:

Healthy, Local Food

Schools source local food in a variety of ways, including through direct farmer relationships, food distributors, schoolyard farms, or the harvesting of wild or traditional foods. When local food arrives in schools it is often served in the form of a salad bar, hot lunch program, tasting activity, fundraiser, or community celebration.

Hands-on Learning

Food literacy is a critically important component of a F2S program. Step into any school offering a F2S program and you will find students learning about food in the school garden, greenhouse, kitchen, lunchroom or classroom. They may also be getting ready for field trips to local farms, forests and shores. Schools access a plethora of resources available to them through provincial and regional partners.

School & Community Connectedness

The most successful and sustainable F2S programs are built upon strong relationships.  Schools establish relationships with farmers, community members, and support organizations, tapping into local knowledge passion,skill and resources.