May 8th 2026
The joy of learning to care for animals
Following on from last week’s reflections, which focused on Communication and Language, this week I wanted to write about the joy of learning to care for and handle animals.
I am so excited about tomorrow’s Adventure into the Wild, where we are looking forward to participating in a range of exciting animal-based activities and handling some unusual creepy crawlies, with 'Old Mole' Jack Randall on hand to share his love of animals and teach us about the importance of caring for the world around us.
As we celebrate David Attenborough’s 100th birthday today, the children joined together in assembly to celebrate his life and achievements, and all of the wonderful things he has taught us about animals and the natural world. Caring for an animal and handling living creatures teaches us so much about our place in the world. Looking after something other than ourselves nurtures kindness, courage and curiosity, while also helping children to understand that showing patience and responsibility towards another living creature teaches humility and respect.
Meeting Turbo the tortoise this week has been no exception, and it has been wonderful to share in the deep interest and care the children have shown towards one little tortoise. They have handled her so gently, looked carefully and closely at her mouth, stroked her shell, and asked the most thoughtful questions: “Was she born with a big shell?”, “Does she have teeth?”, and “Can she breathe under the water and would she need goggles?”
Turbo has wandered (slowly) and freely amongst lots of little feet, and every child has navigated their way around her with such care, making sure not to bump or knock her. She has visited the field, explored the sandpit, dipped her feet in a bowl of water whilst doing a poo, and eaten more dandelions than she has ever had the pleasure of eating in her six years on the planet! (We know that she is a girl by the markings on her tummy!)
Thank you to all of her helpers for the kisses and strokes. She is very lucky to have had so many people looking after her, and she will certainly be back for another visit soon.
See you tomorrow!
