🐾 SEN Animal Assisted Education Programme

What is the SEN Animal Assisted Education Programme?

Our SEN Animal Assisted Education Programme is a 6-week educational experience designed for children with special educational needs (SEN). Each week focuses on a different theme, including our planet and oceans, animal habitats, minibeasts, and animal tales.

The sessions combine animal interactions with engaging, hands-on activities linked to subjects such as Geography, Science, PSHE, and Art & Design. Through exploration and creativity, children gain a better understanding of the world while developing self-awareness, confidence, and positive relationships.

All sessions include interaction and handling with our friendly HugglePets Therapy Animals.

🧒 Who is this programme for?

This programme is ideal for primary-aged children, including those with moderate learning difficulties or other additional needs.

• Group size: 8–10 children per session (plus supporting staff or parents)

⏰ How long is each session?

Each session lasts approximately 45–50 minutes.

📍 Where are the sessions held?

All sessions take place at HugglePetsCIC, in our beautiful Sensory Activity Centre. Children will also explore our:

• Reptile Room

• Community Aquarium

• Pond and Wildlife Centre

These spaces provide a safe and stimulating environment for discovery and play.

🌍 Programme Topics

1. Oceans

• Learn about the dangers of plastics and pollution to sea creatures.

• Explore kindness, self-esteem, and positive choices.

• Enjoy sensory crafts and take part in a fun “ocean clean-up” in our aquarium.

2. Minibeasts

• Identify and compare different insects and animals.

• Create a Minibeast fact file and build a bug hotel.

• Meet some of our curious creatures who might visit the hotel!

3. The Rainforest

• Discover rainforest layers and the animals that live within them.

• Use natural resources to create rainforest-inspired artwork.

• Meet some of our rainforest residents.

4. Plants and Animals

• Learn about nutrition, diet, and healthy foods.

• Plant seeds and discover the parts of a plant.

• Meet herbivore animals and explore what they eat.

5. Animal Tales

• Explore animal-themed stories through movement and creativity.

• Make your own rabbit ears or tortoise shells.

• Meet the animals featured in the tales.

6. Deserts

• Discover the desert habitat and meet our bearded dragons.

• Experiment with traditional Aboriginal dot painting inspired by Australia.

👥 Group Size

Up to 10 children per session, with staff or parents in attendance.

🗓️ How to Book

To book or make an enquiry, please contact us here.