Accessibility & SEN Support
(autism-friendly information)
OUR COMMITMENT
This page explains how Animal Club supports children with autism and other learners with additional needs. It is designed to help families, schools and educators understand what to expect from both our website and an Animal Club visit, so experiences feel predictable, calm and enjoyable. If you need information in a different format or have specific questions, please contact us.What to expect from an Animal Club visit
Understanding what will happen in advance can help reduce anxiety. Below is a clear overview of the Animal Club experience.
The session environment
- Sessions take place in a familiar setting - school hall, classroom or group location
- Lighting remains normal (no darkened room)
- The environment is calm and structured
- Animals are introduced gradually, one-by-one
Animals
- Real animals are present during the session
- Animals are handled by a trained Ranger
- Children are never forces to touch an animal
- Looking at the animal without touching is always ok
- The Ranger explains what each animal is
- There are no dangerous animals
Sound
- The Ranger will speak calmly & clearly
- Sudden loud noises are avoided
- Animal sounds are natural and not made to be louder
- Children can wear ear defenders if preferred
Animals
- Movement and interaction
- Animals may move slowly or unpredictably
- The Ranger explains movements in advance where possible
- Interaction if optional and guided by the Ranger
- Children can choose how close they get to the animals to feel comfortable
Support during sessions
We understand that every child is different.
All Animal Club session are designed to be flexible and supportive
In a session everyone is welcome to:
Sensory considerations:
- Observe from a distance
- Take part at their own pace
- Use comfort items or sensory aids
- Step out of the room (and return) if needed
Sensory considerations:
- Different animal textures (fur, scales, shells)
- Natural animal smells
- Gentle movement
- Quiet animal noises
To prepare for your Animal Club visit in advance
We have a pre-visit guide which takes you through step-by-step how an Animal Club visit works.
It also introduces the Rangers and answers some frequently asked questions. Download it by clicking the button below.
Booking and communication support
When booking an Animal Club visit, you are welcome to share any information that may help us support your group.
This may include:
- Sensory sensitivities
- Fear of specific animals
- Anxiety triggers
- Communication needs
- Reasonable adjustments
There is no additional charge for reasonable adjustments.
For accessibility or SEN enquiries, please contact us by completing the enquiry form using the button below
Pre-school visit, Huntingdon
“The kids absolutely loved the visit, Aaron was so good with the children and giving info and details at their level of understanding.”
Maple Medical Pru
” The students were fully engaged throughout the sessions …informing those doing the BTEC Animal care course in both handling and restraining, what internal and external factors affect their behaviour. ”
Primary school teacher
” Our school visit today was really informative for both year groups and the children thoroughly enjoyed their session. Hannah was very knowledgeable and delivered the sessions really well. ”
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DBS Checked • Fully Insured • Risk Assessments Available