Animal Centre Empowers Young Learners
DevonThe Animal Centre at Combe Pafford School in Devon, Opens with a £20,000 Funding Boost
Combe Pafford School supports children and young people with moderate learning difficulties (MLD), many of whom also have autism, physical, and sensory disabilities. These students often arrive working significantly below age-related expectations, but through tailored support and qualifications in core subjects, they make remarkable progress. The school’s new animal care centre, made possible through vital funding from Wooden Spoon Devon, has had a transformative impact. Offering hands-on vocational learning from Year 9 to sixth form, the centre gives students a real-world environment to engage with a wide range of animals, boosting confidence, enthusiasm, and practical skills. With purpose-built facilities and a high-profile location within the school, the centre has sparked increased interest in animal care and supports not only Combe Pafford students but those from nearby schools as well.
The Animal Centre: A Space for Academic Success and Personal Growth
This new educational space, which opened on 26th of March 2025, provides a calming and structured environment designed to help students connect, learn, and thrive. Combe Pafford’s mission is to ensure that all students, regardless of their challenges, receive the highest standard of teaching and opportunities for academic success that are tailored to their unique needs.
This educational space was generously funded by a Wooden Spoon Charity grant. Wooden Spoon supports Combe Pafford’s dedication to creating safe, inclusive, and enriching spaces that foster well-being, educational growth, and personal development.
Wooden Spoon: Transforming Lives Through Rugby and Community Support
Wooden Spoon is a charitable organisation dedicated to improving the lives of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland. The charity has funded numerous projects that create opportunities for young people through physical, educational, and social initiatives.
With a track record of impactful, community-driven projects, Wooden Spoon continues its mission to make positive, lasting change in communities.
Support specialist educational projects across the UK and Ireland by donating to Wooden Spoon or find out more here.
