Down on the Farm

An unusual and very popular feature enjoyed by pupils at both Kent College schools is the School Farm. This is situated very close to the Senior School but Junior School pupils make regular visits through the seasons.

The farm operates as a commercial venture and is run by a full-time manager. Pupils from both schools can learn the skills of animal husbandry – the farm has cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, rabbits and other smaller animals – and eventually develop the knowledge and confidence to show their stock at the Kent County Show in July where our Young Farmers’ Club regularly wins a fistful of prizes. However for the younger children farm visits don’t start out as anything as serious as this. It’s a wonderful opportunity to turn up and have a cuddle with something soft and furry, and perhaps even to see the miracle of a new life entering the world at lambing time in the Spring.

As well as the planned visits the farm is open to all Kent College pupils – and their families – on most weekday evenings during term time and on Saturday mornings. It also opens its doors to children from other local primary schools. No experience is necessary to start with – just a genuine interest in animals, an old set of clothes and a good strong pair of wellies!