Secondary pupils can now gain an Entry Level or Level One qualification called “Developing Confidence in Working with Animals”; a course written by Greatwood’s Head of Special Needs Laura Jones, because she felt the children who have made such great progress should have something tangible to show for their efforts.

 

The work is mainly with horses but also gives opportunities to work with our sheep, goats and poultry to develop introductory levels of animal husbandry and care. Assessment is primarily through practical task completion over the ten-week programme.

 

The Course

• Activities are largely practical and involve the development of good care regimes for our sheep, goats, poultry, Shetland ponies and racehorses.
• Each session comprises a series of practical tasks such as feeding, grooming and cleaning out a selection of animals.
• Practical knowledge is consolidated in classroom sessions and students are encouraged to record their achievements in a weekly log.
• Students are taught to recognise health and safety hazards and are encouraged to take responsibility for their own safety.
• Emphasis is very much upon team working and co-operation to complete practical tasks.
• Students are given the opportunity to get to know the animals, hear about each animal’s history prior to rescue by Greatwood and witness the rehabilitation process.
• The course runs for ten sessions of two hours per session. These are run each week during term time.
• The maximum number of students per session will depend largely on their level of need. We can accommodate up to eight secondary aged students per session.
• We offer an Entry Level and Level One course with a value of three credits.
• Students are expected to attend all of the sessions in order to gain the qualification.
• Students will need to attend in clothing appropriate for outdoor activities in all weathers.

Cost

The accredited course costs £20 per student.