Animals & Autism

April is National Pet Month, so we thought it would be the ideal time to talk about some of the four-legged friends who live with us at Kisimul’s schools in Lincolnshire and our college in Cambridgeshire and tell you a little bit more about the vital role they play here.  

While you probably already know that our schools, college, registered care homes and supported living services provide exceptional education and care for children and adults with autism, learning disabilities and complex needs, you may not be aware that central to that offering is our onsite animal husbandry provision.  

Headed up by experienced Co-ordinator Nick Davey, our animal husbandry facility has been providing young people with safe access to a wealth of enriching animal centred experiences at Kisimul for over 20 years.  

Boasting our very own smallholding at the heart of the school grounds, young people are encouraged to get hands on tending to our much-loved ponies, goats, sheep, and pigs. In doing so, they learn a host of transferable life skills, build confidence, and enjoy a truly unique sensory experience.  

Jack, Clover, and even goat yoga… 

“Pupils develop their talents and interests through a range of activities…Some pupils enjoy their time on the school farm. They love looking after the horses, goats, sheep and pigs. Clover, one of the pigs, is particularly popular”
Kisimul School 2023 Ofsted Report 

We asked Nick Davey to explain what’s kept him down on the farm for the last 22 years. He had this to say, “This is the best job in the world. I get to work with amazing young people, Kisimul’s incredible team, and a menagerie of wonderful creatures. Whatever their age or stage, when coming to the yard Kisimul’s young people find a safe space to engage and contribute in a genuine way. The animals do not judge and have no expectations, so although many students are cautious around them to begin with, in time their confidence grows, and the farm becomes a place where they can thrive. That’s brilliant to see.” 

“My own role has evolved over the years but core to it has always been ensuring our animal’s welfare and delivering the curriculum in a safe way which engages young people who sometimes struggle with traditional schooling. We’ve got a troop of fabulous characters here who are key to helping me do that, including a pig called Clover who keeps everyone entertained, our old pro Jack the Shetland pony (he’s been here so long we’re going grey together), and a mischievous crew of goats who I was able to train to join the students and colleagues in yoga practice when they were kids,” he said.  

Transformational teaching
Nick and our teaching and therapy teams get to see first-hand the enormous benefits that Clover and the rest of the gang deliver for our young people, but we’ve rounded up some of the primary take aways for you, below.  

Reducing anxiety
The soothing effect of animals on people experiencing anxiety is well documented, but as well as this our therapeutic team have noted that spending time on the yard can alleviate distress for young people struggling to manage their sensory regulation needs, too. The structure and the routine that caring for the animals provides can also be a source of calm for those who thrive in routine led situations.  

Academic attainment
Many young people supported by Kisimul with autism and learning disabilities push back when demands are made of them in a formal setting, so being able to deliver ‘learning by stealth’ is a vital tool in our educational armoury.  

By tackling day-to-day tasks around the yard and away from the classroom, young people find themselves learning through application – counting scoops of feed, measuring, weighing, and developing many other practical skills that give them the opportunity to pursue meaningful careers later in life.  

The ancient grasslands which surround the school also offer opportunities to get out into nature. Here, students can get involved with bug hunts, bird watching, and learn about biodiversity.  

Encouraging socialisation
Animals are great ice breakers, and being around them can encourage young people to venture outside their comfort zones. Whether it be pig or pony, goat or guinea pig, animals give honest and immediate feedback which can help our young people to learn about the importance of body language, volume control, and boundaries. By nurturing the animals, students get the chance to practise empathy and enjoy the unconditional love and companionship pets offer.  

Building confidence
The yard gives everyone the chance to contribute in a meaningful way by tackling tasks which are both achievable and rewarding. Looking after the animals gives our young people a sense of responsibility and pride, which boosts self-esteem and self-confidence. For those who struggle with verbal communication, finding alternative ways to communicate with the animals is particularly beneficial.  

Physical and mental health
Getting stuck in at the farm increases the level of physical activity our young people do. Pushing and pulling the wheelbarrows, sweeping up, filling hay bales, and grooming the animals are all great exercise and are also excellent activities for proprioceptive (sense of body awareness) and vestibular (sense of balance and special awareness) input. Many of these tasks help to develop fine and gross motor skills and aid bi-lateral coordination. Even putting gloves on is beneficial – helping to improve dexterity.  

Learning how to keep the animals safe and secure can also help young people who struggle to understand risk themselves. Leading the ponies, closing gates, and being mindful of others can all help young people with sensory issues to improve their own awareness and keep them safer when they are out and about.  

Managed year-round by Nick, our farm and grounds have been lovingly maintained and provide a peaceful, green environment which improves the wellbeing of students, colleagues, families, and local wildlife alike. We are incredibly lucky to have this fantastic facility at our fingertips and are proud of the opportunities it allows us to offer the young people that Kisimul supports.  

If you would like to know more about our offering, please email enquiries@kisimul.co.uk.