Time spent in nature and in the company of animals can have a profound impact on students; helping to alleviate stress, calm nerves, build confidence and provide a sense of wellbeing.

The main aims of Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI) are to improve a person’s social, emotional and cognitive functioning using animals that have been selected for their temperament and calm behaviours.

There is growing evidence that AAI can assist with a wide range of health disorders, in both children and adults. Autistic children can benefit greatly from these sessions which can improve health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Katy Gilbert, Queenholme Alpacas