At Coombe House Farm, we are fortunate to care for a small flock of sheep owned by local farmer Jason Read. Sheep play an important role in helping us teach about farming, animal welfare, food production, and the seasonal rhythms of life in the countryside.
We are usually home to two much-loved ewes, Barbara and Annie, who have become firm favourites with pupils, staff and visitors alike. Their calm nature and friendly personalities make them wonderful ambassadors for the farm.
Learning Through Sheep
Our sheep provide valuable opportunities to learn about:
- Animal care and welfare
- Livestock management
- Grazing and pasture management
- Lambing and the farming calendar
- Food and fibre production
- Responsible farming practices
Whether they’re grazing in the field, settling into a new paddock, or greeting visitors from behind the fence, our sheep help bring farming to life and create meaningful connections with the natural world.
Why Sheep Matter on Our Farm
Having sheep on our farm helps us connect with the countryside and understand where food and materials come from. It gives us the chance to see farming in action. Most importantly, the sheep are part of our farm family and they teach us kindness, responsibility and respect for living creatures.
What Do Sheep Do?
Sheep are amazing animals! They:
- Graze the land – they eat lots of grass, helping to keep fields healthy.
- Grow wool – many breeds grow thick fleeces that can be sheared and spun into yarn for jumpers, socks, and blankets.
Teach us – by watching and looking after them, we learn about animal care, farming, and the natural cycle of life on a farm.
