If we don’t get to the farm, then the farm comes to us!
Today saw an extravaganza of farming fun for the children of the North Rhins Partnership. All three schools came together to participate in a carousel of farming activities kindly organised by Mrs McKnight. This was an opportunity for us to learn more about farming as a career first hand, seeing a range of farming roles up close. Jack Milroy kindly allowed us to use his field for the event.
Stuart McCrindle demonstrated the great team work skills of himself and Zak rounding up sheep. Zak is the Scottish Sheep Dog Trial Champion this year, so we were treated to an exceptional demonstration of skill. Stuart explained that he became interested in this aspect of farming as a young boy and has made a career out of his interest. He also explained that it takes about 4 years to fully train a sheep dog – one year for each leg, as he put it. 😉 Stuart brought along a very cute puppy that the children were able to pet and nominate names for. The winner will be announced shortly.
Grant Hurcomb and Jack Milroy delighted the children with a sheep sheering demonstration. The boys and girls were amazed at how quickly a sheep could be fully sheered – the work of seconds! Grant talked about why we sheer sheep, and explained the uses of wool. The children had an opportunity to feel the freshly clipped wool for themselves. There was a discussion on careers as a sheep farmer. Grant has taken part in lots of shearing competitions, clipped sheep in New Zealand and even clipped sheep for 50 hours raising nearly £50,000 for charity.
Ian McKnight (Mrs McKnight’s husband) educated the children on sheep animal husbandry. He explained what a farmer must do to ensure his flock is healthy and happy. He shared examples of the medication and vitamins that are given to sheep, as part of an ongoing yearly calendar, to prevent diseases and ensure they have the right minerals. He also shared the different kinds of feed given to the sheep for different purposes. There were two very lovely calves and sheep nearby for the children to pet.
And last, but not least, Steven Adams and Angus Brown brought along tractor and a chopper to show the children. They chatted about what they use them for and the children were very excited to get the opportunity to sit in the vehicles and even toot the horn. could have a seat inside.
It was a highly successful afternoon learning about the world of work in the farming industry. We certainly have a few budding farmers in the making!
Prior to the farming event, the children enjoyed connecting with their friends across the partnership with some outdoor play time.
Thank you to Mrs McKnight and our Farming Volunteers who took the trouble to come along and share with us.
# Successful Learners
As a wee surprise, the children arrived back at school to find that Kim and Mark had kindly fitted swings in the playground for them to enjoy. They didn’t want to go home at 3 O’clock as they were having so much fun!
