Where do you offer visits?
The Animal Lady visits settings across the Birmingham and Solihull area.
Do we need to travel to you?
No. Nichola brings the animals taking part directly to your setting.
How many children can take part?
Up to 60 children can take part in a visit. Groups of around 30 children per classroom or session are recommended for the best experience.
How long are visits?
Visits have a minimum duration of 45 minutes. Longer sessions can be planned around your requirements.
Can visits link to the National Curriculum?
Yes. Nichola can plan sessions around curriculum areas, your current topic or specific learning objectives.
Can you create a bespoke session?
Yes. Sessions can be tailored to the age group, topic, learning aims and needs of your setting.
Can sessions be adapted for SEN?
Yes. Discuss any specific needs in advance so the visit can be planned appropriately.
Can children handle the animals?
Some animals may be suitable for supervised handling, depending on the animal, children and session. Please discuss this before your visit.
What if a child is frightened?
No child is pressured to touch an animal. They can observe, ask questions and take part in other ways.
Which animals can visit schools?
The current school-visit animals include Diego the veiled chameleon, the girl duck gang, Arlo the Mini Lop rabbit and Mango the leopard gecko. The animals attending are chosen with their welfare and the setting in mind.
Are you insured?
Yes. The Animal Lady holds appropriate insurance for animal visits. Relevant documentation can be provided on request.
Do you visit nurseries and after-school groups?
Yes. Experiences can be adapted for younger children and after-school groups.
Do you offer care home visits?
Yes. Care home visits can be planned around wellbeing, reminiscence, communication and gentle sensory experiences.
What if I cannot find the session I want?
Just ask. Nichola can discuss a bespoke visit for your group, topic or wellbeing goal.