In 2022 the headteacher wanted to find a way to build community spirit at the school after Covid. There were lots of suggestions for getting animals involved, and pigs came out on top!
For a start, they’re hypoallergenic, which is a big consideration in a school, and they’re simple to look after, with a bit of knowledge.
We approached Kew Little Pigs – a local petting farm – to ask for advice, and soon three of their pigs had a new home at the school in a specially built paddock.
The pupils named them Dobby, Cow Pig and Socks, and they make such a difference to the children, especially those who have extra learning needs.
I joined the PTA over a year ago and have become very involved with the pigs. Kew Little Pigs still comes to visit and offer tips, and two teachers look after the animals during the school terms.
Some teachers take their classes into the pigs’ pen. It could be as often as three or four classes a day, twice a week, so they’re socialised, well-fed pigs.
The PTA steps in when needed – we’ve just bought a new shed to keep all the food in, and a new pen. I fix things, and in the summer holidays there’s a PTA rota, and we go in and feed them.
While I was building the shed, I watched the children come and go to the paddock. Those with more severe learning needs went in with the teaching staff on a one-to-one basis. It was really touching to see them get involved. The pigs are so gentle – they may give each other a bit of a shove sometimes, but with the children, they just lay down and enjoy getting tickled and fed. They especially love bread and vegetables.
The children learn a lot – a sense of care and responsibility, routine and jobs to do. They know what to feed the pigs, what not to feed them and how much water to give. There’s also a real calming influence that comes with the interaction. The teachers benefit too!
The PTA budget for the pigs is currently £700 a year, which covers vet bills and basic food. On top of that we beg and fundraise for extra hay and straw throughout the year.
Recently, the local community stepped in to assist us. As soon as we said: ‘The primary school needs help,’ the local tree surgeon turned up to put woodchip down because the pen gets very muddy. It’s definitely a support network, with the teachers, the PTA and the community all mucking in.
Michael Kearton, PTA member, Waterside Primary Academy School PTA, Chesham, Bucks (200 pupils)
