Meet Phil Halsey (Maths teacher and former head ‘farmer’) 

Tell us a little about the farm… 
“For over five years, the Roedean farm, located within our own grounds, has encouraged girls to use our wonderful outside space. It’s a unique opportunity for practical experience beyond the curriculum – and has developed into our Wild Friday activities, Head, Heart, Hand and the Community Action Programme with local primary school students.”  

What are the girls’ favourite farm activities? 
“The girls absolutely love walking the goats! Our herd often roam freely around the campus. And activities involving baby animals are always popular – from newborn lambs to raising chicks.”  

As a teacher, what do you most enjoy about your time here? 
“It’s so nice just being outside. I initially got involved for some fresh air – four years later, I’m bottle-feeding lambs at 2am! And seeing the girls outside the classroom is rewarding – they’re incredibly confident and capable and I’ve learned a lot from them.”  

What do the girls gain from the experience? 
“Meeting other girls across different year groups and building those friendships is vital. For older pupils, it’s an opportunity to develop leadership skills and teach younger girls how to manage the farm. For younger girls, it’s a chance to learn new skills and work towards becoming a Farm Prefect.”    

And does ‘farm time’ have other benefits? 
“Yes, it can be a chance to relax and get away from exam stresses. With mixed year groups, girls often use the time to gain advice from older peers in a safe informal space.”  

Your personal favourite moment running the farm… 
“Chasing ‘Pig’ (our largest sheep) with several girls trying to catch her was hilarious! It was then a very tricky workout to tip her to trim her hooves :-).”