Education
This section will help plan and prepare for an educational visit to the farm. Also refer to Guided Nature Tours, Weir Farm Guide, and Farm Conservation Guide.
Things to get you started when visiting the countryside.
Risk assessment
We advise a pre-visit to our farm, during which you can carry out a risk assessment and become familiar with the site. A copy of the farm’s risk assessment is available on request.
Clothing
You and your pupils should wear appropriate outdoor clothing, including sturdy shoes or wellingtons, not sandals.
Behaviour
Teachers/group leaders are responsible for the children’s behaviour throughout the visit. The children should understand how to behave on the farm and always follow the Country Code.
During and after the visit, make sure that the children:
- do not kiss animals
- always wash their hands thoroughly before and after eating, after any contact with animals, and again before leaving the farm
- eat only food that they have brought with them, or food for human consumption that they have bought on the farm, in designated areas, and never eat food which has fallen to the ground, or taste animal foods
- do not suck fingers or put hands, pens, pencils or crayons, etc. in their mouths
- clean or change their footwear before leaving, remembering to wash their hands after any contact with animal faeces on their footwear.
Check that the children stay in their allocated groups during the visit, and that they:
- do not use or pick up tools (e.g. spades and forks) unless permitted to do so by farm staff
- do not climb on to walls or animal pens, etc.
- listen carefully, and follow the instructions and information given by the farm staff
- approach and handle animals quietly and gently
- do not chase, frighten or torment the animals.
Remember:
- the children are your responsibility during the visit
- you should supervise them during the visit, especially during hand washing, to make sure that each child washes thoroughly. Farm staff may be able to help with this supervision
- allow plenty of time before eating or leaving so that the children do not have to rush.
If a member of your group shows signs of illness (e.g. sickness or diarrhoea) after a visit, advise them or their parent/guardian to visit the doctor and explain that they have had recent contact with animals.
Further information
Information sheets and supplements are available free from HSE Books, PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA
Tel: 01787 881165
Fax: 01787 313995
Website: www.hsebooks.co.uk
For enquires, bookings and questions Contact Us