Pupils’ mission brings new furry friend to school

A local school has welcomed a new furry member to its school family thanks to the efforts of the Student Leadership Group (SLG) pupils.

The Avenue Primary School has recently introduced a pet hamster for the children to help care for.

The idea came from suggestions by pupils across the school on how to improve student mental health and well-being. Pupils in the SLG worked on a secret mission, nicknamed ‘Operation Buttercup’, to organise and fund the purchase of the pet.

The group researched what was required to care for the animal responsibly and the costs of its care during its lifetime. They then pitched their ideas to head teacher Mrs Eveleigh and were able to source the required funds from the school PTA committee.

After writing to Pets Corner, their local pet shop in Warminster, manager Kim donated a cage for the new addition. Pupils Alvina and Imogen collected the cage with the school mascot, Tiny the Turtle, in tow. The new home is complete with tunnels that mimic the natural burrow environment hamsters live in.

“The whole school showed ‘democracy in action’ and voted for the new addition’s name – Biscuit!” said a spokesperson for the school. “Since its introduction, the children have been learning about hamsters’ natural habitats, life cycles and new caring responsibilities. After just a short period of time, Biscuit has been a very welcome addition for both the children and staff and is set for a very contented life with its new school family at The Avenue.”