Leeds Rugby Foundation’s Education Programme, Tryzone has forged a new link with a rather unique organisation – Leeds Donkey Sanctuary!
After linking with the donkey sanctuary, discussions were had about some joint working and a day at the sanctuary was arranged. TryZone decided they would also like to adopt a donkey so when all the votes were counted, Ripple was the favourite. TryZone set off armed with wellies, plants and lots of carrots, spending the day out in the community at the Donkey Sanctuary.
On arriving the group learnt about the work the sanctuary does. The sanctuary works with hundreds of local school children with additional needs. They deliver tailored therapeutic riding sessions in a specially designed indoor arena, and also do outreach work in the wider community. The donkeys themselves have arrived at the sanctuary often in need of care and protection from a previous life of suffering and neglect.
Following the de-brief of the day, Tryzone visited the stables to chose a donkey and learn about how to care for them. The boys got the opportunity to be hands on with the donkeys which involved grooming, cleaning their eyes and noses, picking out their hooves and taking them for a walk.
After lunch it was time to get out the gardening tools. The Donkey Sanctuary kindly donated an area to TryZone to create our very own garden there.
Janet Sylvester, Tryzone Tutor commented: "Although it was rather wet and muddy day, the experience was great for the children. The children gained a lot from the experience and are keen to visit again. A huge thank you to the Donkey Sanctuary and watch out for their upcoming plans!!"
To find out more visit: www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/contact/leeds or for more information on LRF's Tryzone Project contact Nigel.Wood@LeedsRugbyFoundation.org