AN abandoned piece of land at St Dunstan Primary School in Calne has been transformed into a farm after businesses responded to children’s pleas for help.

Pupils wrote letters asking for advice and donations for the farm project, which is now home to four chickens, three rabbits and two guinea pigs.

Teacher Nicola Fry wanted to develop learning outside the classroom and use animal therapy, which is proven to lower anxiety levels and improve communication, memory and problem solving skills.

She said: “The children have learned so much.

“They have loved planning this project, developing it and, through the fabulous community support that we received, watch it come to life.

“We still have a long way to go – the children are still learning and working hard to make sure our farm is a huge success and a great learning opportunity.

“I really would like to say a huge thank you to all the people who have helped make this come true.”

The abandoned area of playground, which used to be an old swimming pool, was cleared of weeds, rubbish and debris by Mrs Fry, her husband and their children.

Pupils then designed a layout for the farm before writing letters to businesses asking for advice, support or donations.

The Bowood Estate and Agricentre donated fencing, Buildbase provided wood chippings and Enterprise Roofing felted the roof of the shelter.

Mrs Fry said: “We were overwhelmed with the community help and the support we received with many local businesses saying they were more than happy to help such a fabulous cause.”

Pupils will be responsible for researching the animals’ needs, feeding them, and writing specific care plans to ensure each animal is properly cared for under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The farm is now up and running but, with ambitions of adding a duck and a goat in the near future, the school is still welcoming advice and support for the project.