Meet the Teachers

Each and every interaction has the power to change us and it is a highlight of my job to be able to witness some of these transformations. I have seen nervous children grow in confidence and self esteem. I have seen people who don't like animals bend down and hug a donkey when they though no one was watching. I have heard people speak who don't usually speak. I have seen people thump their heart to communicate what words cannot. I have seen tension melt from faces after time spent with the herd. I have seen anxious children begin to ask questions and suggest ideas. I have seen strangers leave as friends.

Every member of the herd has something different to offer people so I thought you might like to know a little more about each donkey's 'speciality'...

Alfie is curious and confident and will try anything but he is also intelligent and so will need people to work out how to ask him so that a yes is the easy option! He is very socially aware and knows who likes his head in their face if they are bed ridden and who requires a more stand offish approach.

Vinnie is gentle and willing and adapts his energy to match children and the elderly. He is like a big teddy bear in the winter and a popular donkey with the young as he helps them to feel empowered, accomplishing tasks they did not know they were capable of!

Bertie is sensitive and worries too much will be asked of him in which case he shuts down. He chooses who he will team up with and will respond to calm, quiet and consistent people. He has helped many people who identify with him to gain confidence and feelings of self efficacy.

Hughie needs to trust you then he is the most affectionate creature there is! He is calm and obedient and helps people work as a team as if you ask him in the right way he will try his heart out. He is good at helping people regulate their emotions.

Willy is strong willed and helps people discover their hidden assertiveness! He is good for activities involving teamwork, leadership and communication. He is a big donkey who loves to be groomed so giving many people a chance to unwind and experience calmness.

The herd look forward to meeting you in person. Can you guess who you will team up with?!