Exeter Primary School pupils visit RSPCA Little Valley for hands-on animal care experience

Year 6 pupils from Exwick Heights Primary School swapped the classroom for kennels and catteries this week as they visited RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter in Exeter and came face-to-face with what their headteacher described as the “funniest ferrets”.

The trip to the city’s long-established animal rescue centre formed part of the pupils’ work towards their Torbay & Devon Civic Award, which encourages young people to take an active role in their local community.

After suggesting they wanted to support a charity, the children were welcomed to the shelter in Blackhorse Lane, where they learned how staff care for animals that have been rescued from neglect, abandonment or difficult circumstances.

As well as touring the facilities, pupils quizzed staff about animal welfare, rehabilitation and rehoming, and rolled up their sleeves to make enrichment toys for the dogs currently in the shelter’s care.

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One of the standout moments of the day was helping to socialise a litter of very young kittens – a vital part of preparing them for life in new homes. 

The group also spent time meeting a pair of playful ferrets, who quickly became firm favourites.

Gemma Wills, Headteacher at Exwick Heights Primary School, said the visit brought the school’s values to life.

“It was a real joy to see our pupils so engaged throughout the day,” she said. “They loved socialising the kittens and met the funniest ferrets with the loveliest personalities.”

“It was a great way for them to learn about caring for animals and have fun while putting our values of kindness, curiosity and determination into practice.”

RSPCA Little Valley has been caring for, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in Devon for more than 30 years. 

The independent local branch relies heavily on donations and community support to continue its work across Exeter and the wider county.

For the pupils, the visit was not just about meeting animals but understanding responsibility – from the importance of proper pet care to the role charities play in supporting vulnerable animals.

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, which Exwick Heights is part of, said experiences beyond the classroom are key to building confident, compassionate young people.

“Sometimes the most valuable lessons happen outside the classroom,” she said. “Trips like this show children how they can make a positive difference in their community while enjoying themselves and building friendships.”

Back at school, the Year 6 group are now planning to share what they learned with classmates and family members – spreading the message about responsible pet ownership and the work being done just around the corner at Exeter’s animal shelter.