Pupils swapped the classroom for a day of animal care after meeting kittens, playful ferrets and other rescue animals during a visit to a local shelter.
Year six pupils from Exwick Heights Primary School spent time at RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter while working towards their Torbay & Devon Civic Award, gaining hands-on experience of how animals are cared for and rehomed.
As part of their active citizenship work in the community, the pupils suggested visiting a charity. During their trip, they learned about caring for animals in need, asked questions about the shelter’s work and helped make toys for dogs staying at the centre.
Credit: Ted Wragg Trust
The visit also gave pupils the opportunity to socialise very young kittens and meet several ferrets at the shelter.
Gemma Wills, headteacher at Exwick Heights Primary School, said: “It was a real joy to see our pupils so engaged throughout the day.
“They loved socialising the kittens and met the funniest ferrets with the loveliest personalities.
“It was a great way for them to learn about caring for animals and have fun while putting our values of kindness, curiosity and determination into practice.”
Credit: Ted Wragg Trust
Moira Marder, chief executive of the Ted Wragg Trust, said: “Sometimes the most valuable lessons happen outside the classroom.
“Trips like this show children how they can make a positive difference in their community while enjoying themselves and building friendships.”
RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter has been caring for, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in Devon for more than 30 years. The charity relies largely on community support to continue its work helping animals in need.
