Unity College learners get up close and personal with animals

The Children’s Farm made a special trip to Unity College to provide an exciting and educational opportunity for the pupils to interact with farm animals. With most children living in an urban environment, it is rare for them to see and touch real farm animals.

They offered a unique hands-on experience for the students to learn about these animals up close.

A variety of farm animals were brought to the school including sheep, goats, and cows amongst others. The pupils were able to pet and feed these animals, while also learning about their characteristics and behaviours.

The farm staff provided informative talks about the animals and answered any questions that the pupils had.

This experience according to principal Jeanine Kerr at Unity College was particularly valuable as it provided an opportunity for the children to gain a deeper understanding of where their food comes from and the importance of caring for animals.

“Because we live in an urban environment, very few children get to see and touch real farm animals. Their usual experience tends to be through pictures, videos or looking at the animals from a distance.

“This visit was a hands-on experience for those who wanted to touch the animals. There was even an opportunity to feed the calf from a bottle. Everyone had a chance to feed the goats, sheep and pony, experiencing the velvety texture of the animals’ lips. This was a first for some pupils. Some brave pupils sat on the pony.”

She added, “Farming and farm animals are a recurring theme throughout the curriculum. This opportunity added meaning and was an enriching experience to expand what pupils are learning in the classroom.”

The Children’s Farm visit was a memorable and enjoyable experience for the pupils, and it is hoped that it will inspire them to explore and appreciate the natural world around them.

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