In March the year 11 Animal Care group took part in a yard visit at Laurelview Equestrian Centre, Templepatrick.

As part of their course the pupils are learning to handle animals such as dogs, rabbits and horses.

At Laurelview the pupils were able to get some ‘hands on’ experience with a range of animals such as horses, goats and various fowl. They got to practice some tasks which they had been studying in class like filling haynets, mucking out stables and identifying types of animal feed.

They were introduced to Ireland’s three native horse/ pony breeds: the Irish Draft, Connemara and Kerry Bog pony.

Their luck was in when the farrier arrived and they had the opportunity to watch a number of horses being reshod.

The highlight of the day had to be their interaction with the resident pigmy goats. It’s a miracle that a couple didn’t end up being smuggled back to school!!

The pupils couldn’t believe that ‘horses can actually be that big’.

A great day was had by all and lots of theory was put into practice. Many thanks to Laurelview for providing the group with such a positive learning experience.