Junior pupils at Maniototo Area School have been exploring the world of wool through a range of hands-on activities that bring the curriculum to life.

Local shearing contractor Jay Stringer, his brother Kevahn, and nephew Dante - all former pupils themselves - gave a demonstration of machine shearing. 

Their model? A pet sheep belonging to Hemi, who goes to the school.

Following the trio was Alan Paterson, grandfather to two at the school and something of an industry legend, showing how to remove a fleece using old-school blades.

“The students got to see the difference between the two types of shearing. Alan also shared a lot of his wool knowledge with us,” teacher Gemma Hore said.

Shearers and sheep stopping by has not been the only woolly fun on offer at the school in recent weeks: Room 4 had an introduction to knitting, courtesy of some nimble-fingered community guests; Room 7 had a go at using felted wool to make a biodegradable wool planter; and Room 5 visited a local farm and got stuck in sorting wool.

Local knitters share their passion and skills with Room 4 at Maniototo Area School. Image: Maniototo Area School

Gemma said wool has been “an awesome topic” to focus on.

“It is hands-on, provides real-life learning, and has allowed us to make connections within our communities and families.”

Despite the school’s rural catchment, Gemma said there are a lot of students who haven’t had much experience on farms. 

“Our farm students have enjoyed sharing their knowledge with peers, leading to great peer-to-peer learning opportunities.”

More chances to learn are in the pipeline, with the school hosting ‘The Wool Shed’, a converted shipping container packed with wool resources that travels around schools across the country. 

“This will be open for the community to view as well,” Gemma said.

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