Headmaster, Stephen McKernan, shares his thoughts on why he made it his mission to establish the School Farm at St Edward’s Preparatory School
Giving children a hands-on experience of their local environment and the important place of animals within it is becoming a very important way to teach young people about ‘balance’.
Our School which is set within over forty acres of beautiful woodland is an ideal place for alpacas, goats and chickens. Our Mini Farmers programme allows our children the opportunity to feed and be with the animals at lunchtime and feel they are making a positive contribution to the care and welfare of our animals.
With the help of a supportive PTA, our Head Groundsman Shiel Wall and local sponsor Winkworth Estate Agents, the farm is now the most talked about news for the children.
It may be early days, but we are already seeing the School Farm benefit the children in so many ways;
• Their commitment and eagerness to help feed the animals as an extension of the excellent behaviour they demonstrate both inside and outside of the classroom,
• The physical tasks of feeding the animals and how this contributes to a broader understanding of the different ways young people can make a difference
• Opportunities for pupils’ personal development such as the importance of routine and the need for commitment when caring for animals
And we hope to see more benefits in the future including;
• The development of confidence and self-esteem as they see the animals flourish
• Increased levels of environmental responsibility
• Reaching out to the local community with sessions for local pre-school children, families and community groups
The School Farm will continue to evolve and in the Spring we are hoping to welcome some orphan lambs and start to grow our own vegetables, further educating the children on healthy eating.
For more information, visit the St Edward’s Preparatory School website here.
