Wildgoose Rural Training

School: Riversides School

Event: Visit to Wildgoose Rural Training

Aim of the activity

Linking Gatsby Benchmark 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.                        

Activity

A Year Yr 9 students visited Wildgoose Rural Training in Worcester to explore his further education options. The care farm occupies a 42-acre site and offers training in various areas such as horticulture, conservation, farming, arts and crafts, cooking, mechanics, and animal care. Wildgoose provides opportunities for all individuals and abilities to engage with rural life and learn through practical application. When arriving at the training centre, the student met with a team leader who showed him around the site. The team leader discussed the roles the student could have there, as well as what they do day-to-day. A few students showed a great interest in the animal care side of the experience he discussed how this passion is applicable to Wildgoose with the team leader who advised them on some of the training that he might enjoy. The student collected several brochures on the care farm and asked some follow-up questions about the days and hours that are expected if he were to attend after Year 11.

Impact of activity

Hands-on activities helped students understand practical aspects of jobs: Feeding and caring for animals operating or observing farm machinery, crop planting, harvesting, and environmental management.  This gave them insight into skills needed for rural work and inspired interest in related subjects at school.  Students gained confidence by asking questions, handling tasks, and participating in demonstrations.  The visit helped them make informed decisions about potential future career paths and education choices. Students learned about vocational courses, andfurther training opportunities. Teachers reported that students were more aware of realistic steps to enter rural careers.

The students experienced a rural-based centre for the first time which is a different environment from previous school placements. This allowed them to understand the wide variety of post-16s that are available to them after Year 11, particularly those that encourage practical activities and learning.

Quotes from the students.

“I like the training centre”

“What days would I have to come in?”

“How long are the days here?”

“What they do here seems fun”

Teachers Feedback

Wildgoose was very accommodating for the student who visited. There was a great range of post-16 training options to explore, and the student got a good understanding of what’s on offer. The team leader gave the student a lot of information about the site, the training that is offered, and how he could develop his interests with them. It was a valuable first experience for the pupil to see different types of further education providers. He developed his understanding of practical training to learn as opposed to classroom-based education.