On Tuesday 27 February, 16 of our Year 12 pupils who are studying for their Diploma in International Volunteering had the opportunity to put their skills to the test at Watlington Hill Farm Animal Sanctuary.
The qualification forms part of the College’s PULSE programme and is vocationally based and offers the opportunity to plan and take part in an international volunteering placement in Peru. During their study they will demonstrate an achievement of practical skills, understanding and knowledge relevant to applying for funding and completing an international volunteering placement. The achievement of the qualification demonstrates the development of skills which will support students in succeeding in higher education and gaining employment opportunities.
The following is a writeup of the trip from Mrs Farrell, who is leading the Diploma here at Shiplake.
‘The Year 12 pupils who are currently studying for their Diploma were led by the passionate owner, Lins, and started the day by having a tour of the sanctuary. There, they met a lot of the friendly residents such as Cromwell the pig, Grace the horse and Sean and Seamus the twin sheep.
After lunch they had the chance to get to work enriching the lives of the rescued animals and were tasked with massaging the pigs with their favourite Shea butter, creating active feeding toys, and encouraging the horses to employ zoopharmacognosy skills by making water and essential oil mixtures for them to consume.
Another group cleaned out the goat enclosure and moved around their enrichment objects to ensure they remained happy and playful. Everyone then worked together to feed the sheep and even got to meet some friendly donkeys.
The sun shone all day long and speaking with Lins about animal welfare, respect and safety has certainly prepared the group for working with even more exotic animals in Peru in the summer!’
