Shear delight! School has some woolly visitors

Hunstanton students flocked to meet the new arrivals

Pupils thought it was baaaa-rilliant having the guests at their school!

Smithdon High hosted a ewe and her two lambs, as part of an initiative sent up by the Food and Farming Discovery Trust, to increase young people’s awareness of the industry.

“The objective was to widen students’ knowledge on where their food comes from, farming as an industry, and to have the opportunity to see the animals close up,” says Teacher of Food and Nutrition Becky Dibble, who organised the event.

It included learning where the different breeds originate from around the UK, how sheep help with climate changes, understanding where food comes from, and being able to locate local produce on a large map of Norfolk.

Mrs Dibble adds, “A select few students who are interested in animal care and farming as a career took charge of caring for the animals, by feeding them, checking on them, helping to move the pen, and making sure they had clean straw in their shelter.”

The students also spent time outside with the sheep, where Mrs Dibble was able to share her own farming experience, as she and her family have a flock.

Mrs Dibble helping students 

It was the second time that Smithdon has been involved in the project, with this year’s ewe and lambs provided by Dereham-based farmer Josh Hill.

“For some students, this was the first time they had been up close to a farm animal and also had the confidence to ask questions about them,” continues Mrs Dibble. 

“It gives them a chance to understand the importance of farming in the UK, discuss welfare standards, and understand how to care and be empathic towards another being.”

All images Ian Burt

Baaaaa-eautiful lambs Town & Around recently met at Snettisham Park!