The New School Farm Starts to Rise from the Ground

A long-held ambition at Woodlands Academy is finally beginning to take shape as work starts on our exciting new onsite animal farm.

For many years, having a small school farm has been a key goal for the school. The vision has always been about much more than simply keeping animals onsite. While the therapeutic benefits of animal interaction are well known and will bring huge value to many of our pupils, the farm will also provide a unique vocational learning environment, helping young people develop practical skills, confidence, responsibility and experience that will support their future aspirations.

Although we are still some way from achieving our final vision for the farm, we have recently reached several important milestones and, as a result, things are now beginning to happen. Seeing the first buildings arrive on site is a significant and exciting step forward in the project’s journey.

July has seen the start of the delivery and installation of new stables and field shelters, laying the foundations for what will become the Woodlands Animal Farm.

What was once simply an area of grass in the field is now being transformed into a dedicated space for animals and outdoor learning. Over the last two days, Hunters Stables of Bristol have been hard at work erecting the first structures on site, including a goat stable, tack and hay store, field shelter and double stable.

These buildings represent just the beginning of the development. Over the summer holidays, paddocks and animal enclosures will be installed as work continues in preparation for welcoming the school’s animals in September.

The new farm will be a fantastic addition to the school, creating a wide range of opportunities for pupils to engage in hands-on learning, animal care and outdoor activities. As the project progresses, it will become a valuable resource that supports wellbeing, enhances the curriculum and provides meaningful vocational experiences in a real-life setting.

We look forward to sharing further updates as the Woodlands Animal Farm continues to grow from a long-held dream into a reality.