School Animals
Meet the WCPS Animals below...
One of the many job positions which keep our school running smoothly and give our children experiences and responsibilities to prepare them for life are our animal carers. These children applied for their jobs because they loved animals, had experience of animals or wanted experience of working with animals or are interested in nature and wildlife. They were chosen to help to look after the animal residents of WCPS and take on the chores of feeding, cleaning out and giving them fresh water, as well of stroking them and thinking up ways to keep them busy and challenged... because at WCPS everyone learns... even the animals!
Why do we have animals at Whitefield?
Research has shown that pet ownership can be particularly beneficial for children: from teaching them responsibilities and about the cycle of life, to providing companionship and building confidence.
School pets have been found to:
- motivate pupils to think and to learn, as children have a high level of natural interest, enthusiasm and enjoyment of animals
- encourage a respect and reverence for life in pupils and thereby improve their relationships with other pupils, parents and teachers
- foster a sense of responsibility in children
- teach children to nurture and respect life
- helps our children to read
- lead to the development of hobbies / careers in animal care
- improve academic achievement
Teachers have also found therapeutic benefits for children with special needs. For example: - a calming effect on pupils, particularly those with behavioural or learning difficulties; improving behaviour and concentration, reducing stress and improving self-esteem
- encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children
- animals can help when working with the most vulnerable children
- educational improvements with low achievers
Pets in schools also have social benefits for the school community: - enhance the learning environment, creating a sense of security and family warmth for the pupils
- encourage the involvement of parents and the wider community in school activity
- help to promote the school as an important nurturing influence in the community
- reduce the incidence of truancy, vandalism and conflict through fostering a greater sense of community
Meet Derek, Daisy and Dolly - Our School Runner Ducks!
We watched them hatch them in our Early Years classroom and then decided we couldn't part with them. The children love to collect the eggs, feed them treats and watch them splashing in our pond.
The latest additions... Our 9 School Runner Ducklings!