Children's Fun Day

We took 44 children from Thriftwood School, plus 15 teachers and helpers, on June 3, 2026 to Old MacDonald’s Farm at Brentwood. (Organised by Community Services Chairman, Rotarian Les Sheppard.)

Come the day – President Elect Nick Street and Secretary Brian Wellman made their way to Old MacDonald’s, but regretfully the weather forecast was not good!  However, they arrived early so they sat chatting in the car and were so engrossed they did not notice the coach and children turn up!  

Unexpected Numbers

Brian takes up the tale.  “They were already milling around in the reception area when we caught up with them, only to discover the planned 36 children were 44.  Whoops! 

But this wasn’t a problem and we quickly sorted out the bill for the extra childen with MacDonald’s, but, we chose not to distribute the Kids Out Tee-Shirts on the day, as obviously, only 36 had been ordered.”

Wash Your Hands!

The Teachers organised the children into groups with the necessary adults to supervise for the exploration of the site, with Old MacDonald’s guides who explained the obligatory health and safety rules (keep washing your hands).  First stop was the little creatures’ area to see the chipmunks, geckos and tiny tortoise followed by the Farmyard Friends barn with sheep and goats, and a chance to stroke the Shetland pony.

Once the guided tour was over, the groups were free to carry on around the site to see a wider variety of other animals including chickens, highland cattle and alpacas and of course, to enjoy the rides and play areas.

Worsening Weather

Lunch time and the weather had now begun to worsen, so lunch was indoors, but swiftly followed by access to the various rides and play areas, including the carousel, despite the rain.  The JCB Construction Zone, the Tractors, the Crazy Barn Ride, were very well supported, and especially the Train Rides, which proved especially popular.

At this point the rain was now heavier and although the children seemed oblivious, Nick and Brian took the opportunity to shelter and to find a coffee and a burger for themselves.

“Although we were due to leave at 2.00 p.m.” said Brian, “after consulting the Teachers it was decided to call it a day at 1.30 p.m. and our guests boarded the coach for their journey back to School.”  “I boarded the coach briefly to ask if they enjoyed the day.  There was a  resounding  cheer and thank you Rotary from the children.”

Happy Ending 

With the Club's permission, I ordered a further eight Kids Out Tee-shirts”, said Brian, “and delivered them shortly after to the school later that week.  The Teacher was so pleased and grateful as the children had been asking all week when we are going to be able to wear our T-shirts.”