Newland Poultry

Event: Newland Poultry (work experience)

Number of pupils attending: 3

Aim of the Activity

The aim of this 6 week work experience is to gain practical knowledge of poultry farming operations, including animal care, feeding, cleaning and biosecurity practices, while developing responsibility, teamwork and understanding of agricultural industry. Time spent with an employer can be invaluable and can broaden young people’s knowledge of industries and sectors.

Activity

The students spent the day at Newland Poultry in Malvern, Worcestershire.

During their time on work experience at the chicken farm, they were involved in a wide range of tasks that gave a hands-on insight into the practical aspects of poultry farming. There were many daily tasks that needed to be completed, feeding and watering ensurng the chickens had sufficient feed and clean water, collecting of eggs and sorting, the students had to ensure the eggs were handled gently to avoid any breakages, sorted by size and packed. Cleaning and hygiene were essential as the chicken coops needed to be maintain well so the chickens were healthy this prevented any diseases spreading.

Impact of activity

The impact of this activity raised awareness for the students in what expectations is needed within a working environment. The students showed willingness to learn and understand the rules they had to follow. The students showed they could work together as a team and built good relationships with themselves, Sarah and Meg were very impressed with how hard the students worked. The students grew in confidence throughout their experience at the farm, they learnt many skills being consistent and attentive to detail. They gained a firsthand understanding of how poultry farms operate including the challenges involved in sustainable animal care, food production and biosecurity.

For one student in particular who is continuing his education for post 16 at a local college within the animal care sector this showed him a great insight into the sector and showed him clear ideas of what daily work in these fields involve.

We will be booking again to complete more work experience with Newland Poultry.

Quotes from the students.

This was a great experience
Feeding and cleaning the chickens taught me patience and perseverance, I also gained confidence working with animals.

Quotes from Teachers

I noticed a real boost in the student’s confidence and maturity after their time on the farm.
This type of placement helps bridge the gap between education and the working world.