The children and staff from Primary 5 and 6 had a wonderful day at Butterlope Farm. The programme ‘Sharing the Sperrins’ allowed the children to learn about and explore the following topics:
1) Life on a hill sheep farm in the Sperrins comparing both present and past farming methods.
2) The natural habitats found in the Sperrins Peatland, hedgerows and rivers.
3) The historical features on Butterlope farm exploring the lime kiln and the lazy beds
4) The importance of the landscape for health and well-being.
The children gained hands on experience in feeding the sheep, cows and hens. They recognised different breeds of sheep and their various characteristics. They connected the importance of learning Maths in the classroom and transferring their knowledge of weight and money to the reality of getting lambs ready for market day. The skill of reading scales and halving weight became very important. Children enjoyed experiencing farm tools used in the past by using a scythe and making a rope for the hay stack. By far the children’s favourite area on the farm was the poly tunnel where they got to experience sustainability at its best and there were lots of tasting opportunities!!
I wish to thank Annie and Vinnie Mullan for their hospitality and for providing the children with a truly amazing educational experience.
