Students Embrace Unplugged Farming Adventure at Jamie’s Farm

Animal Care students experienced a transformative adventure at Jamie’s Farm, enjoying five days of farming fun, completely unplugged from the world.

Seven Animal Care students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) attended an enriching five days at Jamie’s Farm, nestled in the stunning Wye Valley of Monmouth, for a unique educational and therapeutic retreat.

The students participated in a variety of real-world tasks including farming, gardening, cooking, horse care, log chopping, music, and crafts, alongside daily countryside walks. These activities were designed to inspire and empower the students, promoting a sense of responsibility, boosting self-esteem, and fostering cooperation.

Sarah Cawston, who has just finished her Level 2 Animal Care (Practical Skills) course at the College, said: “Attending Jamie’s Farm was something different and a really full experience to do with other students and the staff; I feel like it helped me develop better connections with everyone.

“My favourite parts of the trip were definitely looking after the horses and sharing a dormitory with my friends.”

The powerful formula of Farming, Family, Therapy and Legacy by Jamie’s Farm is designed specifically to improve wellbeing, boost engagement, improve behaviour and develop essential life skills such as communication and self-awareness.

Lydia Earles, one of the Animal Care Teachers at our Wigfield Farm campus who attended the trip, added: “Jamie’s Farm had a really positive impact on the students as they stepped out of their comfort zones, met new people and tried new things, including cooking meals for 20 people, climbing a mountain, looking after all the animals, gardening and chopping wood for bonfires.

“Everyone loved their time at Jamie’s Farm and has left with experiences to last a lifetime and because of that, we hope to return again next year with more students!”

We offer a range of full-time and part-time vocational courses in Animal Care. For more information and to apply for a course starting in September, visit the Animal Care department page. Alternatively, contact the Information Team by emailing info@barnsley.ac.uk or calling 01226 216 123.