Alpaca farm to offer hands-on sessions for SEND pupils

An alpaca farm is launching a new experience designed for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and home-educated students.

The sessions, at Anvil Alpacas, in Old Cassop near Durham, will focus on showing students how to care for animals in a calm, low-pressure environment.

The alternative provision licence was granted by Durham County Council last month.

ManagerJane Evans said she is "passionate about working with children" and wants to give something back to the area.

Anvil Alpacas is a family-run business managed by Evans and her son, Michael Maddison-Evans.

Evans was a horse-lover, and owned horses for 20 years, before falling in love with alpacas - which are native to South America - while living in France.

"I had the chance to get our alpacas a year ago and I took the opportunity," she said.

"In just a year we have grown to having 1,300 followers on Facebook," she adds, highlighting the many returning customers who enjoy spending time on the farm.

The sessions will cater to small groups, and the children will learn through hands-on interaction and guided discussion, explains Evans.

Regular customer Ava, 15, said: "Everyone is so friendly, and the alpacas are amazing - especially Sassy and Liv as they are so cuddly.

"Jane is patient and very kind."

Seth, 10, said: "If I could do my school work there I would definitely be able to focus more because it's nice and quiet.

"When I'm there I feel calm."

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