There is more to a pet day than meets the eye, just ask Poolburn School’s senior pupils.

All of the school’s 10 year 8 pupils, supported by teachers Emma Prentice, Sophie Cochran, Deb Stevens and principal Melissa Gare, hosted the event on Thursday, complete with prizes and a grand parade.

They spent each week this term strategically planning the day, which featured some different activities to previous years, including a Young Farmer obstacle course.

The course incorporated a range of tasks for teams to complete, including jumping bales and putting up electric fences.

Organisers also called on the expertise of Rebecca Pirie and Dayna McBreen, of Vetlife, as guest judges, who were looking for a range of elements between pet and owner, including their relationship and whether they could do any tricks.

Monty Anderson and Polly Pocket, led by Lucy. PHOTO: Central App

Rebecca said finding out how helpful the children were at home caring for their pet was also taken into consideration.

“There were definitely some real leaders.”

Oliver Murdoch and Miss Bee (Postman Pat and his Black and White Cat). PHOTO: Poolburn School

Bonnie Copland and Strawberry. PHOTO: Poolburn School

Judges also included a local farmer, business owner and a representative from Beef + Lamb.

Sophie praised the children for their efforts bringing the day together, which was the first pet day for the school in four years. 

Ollie Paterson and Stevo. PHOTO: Poolburn School

“You’ve been incredible to work with and over these past eight weeks we’ve seen you grow as well. You’ve just been really amazing,” she said, during speeches.

Melissa also thanked the children and their supporters for bringing the day together.

“I think we can say our 2023 pet day has been awesome.”

Archie Heaps and Keith. PHOTO: Poolburn School

The young Year 8 pet day committee also thanked the many people who helped make sure the day was a success, including volunteers and sponsors.

It was the first time the pet day had been held for the entire day, an event which had previously only taken place in the morning.

And, despite there only being two weeks left of school for the year, the children and their teachers were showing no signs of slowing down yet.

Instead, they plan to make wooden Christmas trees out of pellets, before wrapping up in mid-December.