EVC Magazine Autumn 2025_digital - Flipbook - Page 35
Classroom preparation
:
On the day
Talk to the children in advance about how to behave
around animals, for their own safety and for the animals’
welfare. Some students may not have had close contact
with animals, so they should be taught to treat them with
respect, approach them calmly and quietly and always
follow instructions from the farm or zoo staff.
• Make sure you have enough adult supervision,
especially where children are in contact with animals.
For farm visits, discuss the dangers of large machinery
and how to avoid accidents. It is more important than
ever on a farm visit that children stay with the group.
• Make sure there is a safe and clean place in which to
eat and that everyone has washed their hands first.
Health hazards
Some pupils may be allergic to hay, animal fur or pollen,
so make sure that all staff are trained to look for signs of
allergic reaction and know how to respond. Ensure that
you have information about any known allergies and
medical needs and the relevant medication on the day
– consider how this will be stored and carried, especially
on transport and in groups.
Be aware of animal-borne diseases and any current
advice, such as disinfecting or changing footwear on
arrival and departure.
When choosing visit staff or parent helpers, be aware that
pregnant women should not risk contact with animals
that have recently given birth, particularly sheep, but also
cattle and goats.
Be alert to any signs of illness (e.g. sickness and
diarrhoea) during or after the visit and act quickly to alert
parents and carers and the venue if these could be linked
to the visit.
• Ensure that all staff, volunteers and children are
clear about safety and behaviour rules, such as
interactions with animals, machinery, hand-washing
and food hygiene.
• Be prepared to deal with bites, stings
and allergies.
Farm and zoo visits
are a great way to...
learn about farming and where food
comes from
understand how the weather affects
farming and food production
see how farms and zoos take care of
their animals
learn more about life cycles and
evolution
connect with nature and wildlife
explore conservation and
environmental issues
find inspiration for
cross-curriculum learning,
from art to English and history
GUIDANCE AND RESOURCES
See also OEAP National Guidance at →oeapng.info
7.1g Farm Visits
7.2e Bites and Stings
7.1z Visitor Attractions
For a specific code of practice for visiting farms, see
→visitmyfarm.org/resources/code-of-practice
THE EVC MAGAZINE – AUTUMN/WINTER 2025-26
35
