Just like the well-known fable these three little pigs need a solidly built home and a nationwide search has been launched to find them one.
Neville, Ron and Ralph are part of a scheme by ethical micro pig breeder Kew Little Pigs, who want to gift them to a school to help foster empathy and teamwork.
In the famous story of the three little pigs, two pigs had their homes blown over by a wolf after building them from straw and sticks. But the third pig fended off the predator because their home was built from bricks.
Kew Little Pigs bosses believe that by caring for the little piggies, children in their chosen school will experience amazing benefits, including increased communication skills, and a love and respect for all animals.
Schools who would like to apply must have space for a pig pen, be prepared for staff to attend a pig keeping course, and also demonstrate that they will create a pig care rota, to keep the adorable porkers well looked after.
Olivia Mikhail, owner of Kew Little Pigs, which is based in Amersham Bucks, said: “It might sound strange to be giving our pigs away, but this is a scheme that we really believe in.
“Where we have brought pigs to schools in the past, children experience a different side to what they might think a pig is. They all see what we see, which is that pigs and all animals are precious and special, with unique personalities. Our little pigs certainly are cheeky.”
Any school in the country can apply to adopt Neville, Ron and Ralf, and full training is provided as well as transportation.
The move comes after the farm launched the scheme successfully in schools around Buckinghamshire, with Waterside Primary Academy, in Chesham, adopting three pigs last year.
Olivia Goddard, Year Four class teacher at the school, who has been leading the PTA funded piggy project, said: “This has been one of the most amazing things we have done, not only has it helped the children teaching them responsibility and nurturing, but it also very good with the well-being side too.
“It was wonderful how instantly the children naturally warmed to the pigs, when they go into the pig pen their whole demeanor changes. I am also very impressed that they have not been at all squeamish about picking up the pig poo too.”
To help care for the pigs the school has appointed Year Five pupils as Pig Rangers, and the youngsters feed and clean out the pigs in the morning before school starts.
Parents are also getting involved, learning how to care for the animals so that together with their children they can help out during the school holidays.
To find out more about Kew Little Pigs and to register an interest for your school go to www.kewlittlepigs.com
