On 12 January 2012 South Street Primary School, Gateshead was invaded by sheep and wool and a lot of fun was had by all.
Rachael Gillbanks from the NFU North East has organised for 5 schools in the north east of England to have the opportunity to learn about sheep and wool, learn to make felt, and make Woolsack cushions. Sheila Smith from the International Feltmakers Association taught the children to make felt and they were able to create a cushion between them using Sheila's own design.
The children of Martyn Kelly's class really enjoyed the physical and creative efforts involved in making felt.
They also learnt a great deal about sheep and wool with the very special experience of having a sheep and lamb come into the school. Karron Craighead, a farmer from Ponteland, bought in an 8 month old hog and a week old bottle fed lamb, and Rachael Gillbanks talked to the children about wool and sheep.
In the middle of all the fun Chris Hodder from Radio Newcastle came and interviewed everyone taking part. Here he is talking to Sheila Smith.
Finally, an overview of a very exciting and productive morning, and a hint of what the finished cushion will look like. It will be a very lucky athlete who gets this special cushion!
