Sttebs Education welcomes new animals to support further Animal Care and Agricultural Learning Pathways

Sttebs Education is delighted to announce the arrival of five miniature pigs, marking an exciting expansion of the education centre's animal care and agricultural education provision.

The adorable pigs were delivered by Kew Little Pigs, with owner Olivia Mikhail delivering a comprehensive and engaging introduction to miniature pigs and the fundamentals of pig husbandry.

As part of their induction, Sttebs Education individuals and team completed a structured and interactive session covering:

• Care and commitment

• Health, safety and disease control

• Feeding, housing and essential equipment

• Training and behaviour

• Key pig facts and welfare principles

The session offered individuals valuable practical experience and industry insight into pig keeping, drawing directly from Kew Little Pigs’ expert-created “Husbandry Guide to Pig Keeping.” Individuals also explored best practices in welfare, daily routines, legal requirements such as ear tagging and movement records, as well as the natural behaviours and care needs of miniature pigs.

The decision to introduce pigs at Sttebs Education is aligned with the centre's expanding qualification portfolio. Several City & Guilds and AQA units include content on livestock care, animal management and pig husbandry. The arrival of the pigs provides individuals with first-hand and real-world practice that strengthens their employability in farming and agricultural environments.

Natalia Betts, Managing Director of Sttebs Education, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome our new miniature pigs to Sttebs Education. Practical learning is at the heart of what we do, and these animals will play an important role in helping our individuals develop meaningful, industry-relevant skills. For some of our individuals, particularly those with a passion for farming, this experience could be life-changing. By building their confidence, knowledge and hands-on abilities, we’re opening doors to real employment opportunities in an area that is growing across the UK.”

The pigs will now form an integral part of Sttebs Education’s care farm provision, contributing to daily learning routines, animal welfare training and long-term skill development for individuals preparing for work in the animal care and agricultural sectors.

A video of the new arrivals can be viewed in Sttebs Education’s social media pages!