A trip to Jamie’s Farm
Twelve of our Year 8 students recently visited Monmouth in Wales for a residential trip to Jamie’s Farm!
They had a fantastic opportunity to live and work there for 5 days, discovering all the ins and outs of life on a farm.
What is Jamie’s Farm?
“Jamie’s Farm uniquely combines farming, family and mindfulness sessions into a 5-day residential with a focus on giving children time and space to reflect, to renew and determine a new path for themselves. We do this by creating an environment where they feel respected, and are given opportunities to display their talents and show responsibility.”
– Jamie’s Farm
PE teacher, Miss Skelton said: “The experience for our students was truly unforgettable and for some will have been life changing. Rising to the challenges of farm life and putting the needs of animals before themselves (even before breakfast!) helped students to look beyond themselves and their needs.
The relationships built with adults and each other encouraged students to be themselves and realise just how fantastic they are. As teachers, we could not have been more proud of our students and we’re delighted that this opportunity is going to be offered to next year’s Year 8!”
On the trip, students got to prepare and cook their own meals. They worked with the animals and got stuck in with general farm maintenance jobs.
The skills our students learn at the farm directly help to improve other parts of their education in school. From engagement in lessons, to encouraging positive self-esteem and mental health. These skills are proven to help with academic success and achievements later in life.
Of course they had plenty of down time with fun games, teamwork exercises and exploring the outdoors on a walking adventure.
Students even got to witness twins lambs being born on their visit!
They had a brilliant time!
Check out what some of our students had to say 👇
“I learnt to be more patient which has helped me at school and home. I would like to focus on eating healthier as the trip taught me how to cook healthy food. I would also like to go for more walks and enjoy nature.”
-Daniel O
“I have been able to expand my love for animals at home by getting my own dog. I am not scared of saying no to new things because of my experience at Jamie’s farm.”
-Junior
“I have made new friends and become a little more confident.”
-Bilal
“When I was on the farm I did things I have never done before. This gave me confidence to try new things. I will be able to use this in school, making sure I focus in lessons. I have learnt to be more caring of others and would like to continue this with my friends.”
-Henna
“I want to focus on the positives in life and focus on myself more. I enjoyed working as a team and encouraging others when they were struggling.”
-Daniel K
“I say yes more and pay more attention in class. It feels nice to say yes to new things. Before I was scared, but now I am more confident. I also learnt lots of teamwork skills that I can apply in school.”
-Aissa
“I have learnt to be more resilient and found the confidence to speak to new people. I have made new friends from the experience.”
-Faith
“The trip showed me the benefits of having a break from social media and how this affects my mental health.”
-Yawer
“I have made new friends and have become a little more confident and I would like to improve on this further.”
-Emma
“This trip allowed me to think about the choices I make at school. I want to be a better person and try even harder in my lessons.”
-Abdel