On Wednesday 9th of September, learners in the Hobsonville ESOL programme arrived for class without knowing they were about to receive a very special surprise.
The ESOL class takes place every week at Hobsonville’s Headquarters Building and is taught by Renata (Bee) Kang from Auckland Central and West Centre.
At around 11am, everyone gathered outside at the Headquarters Building to meet three adorable baby lambs: Betty, Bam-Bam and Squiggles.
When the Hobsonville Connected Network’s Community Development Facilitator contacted Bee, she jumped at the chance to incorporate lambs into the class’s learning.
“We were in the middle of doing elections in class and the surprise lamb visit happened at just the right moment. It gave the class a lovely pause before returning to the lesson,” she said.
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Barbara Halliday, the carer of the lambs, shared their touching backstories. Each of the lambs had a difficult start to life.
Betty was found cold, hungry and all alone, likely as a triplet who didn’t get enough milk from their mother.
Bam-Bam was orphaned at just two weeks old and has since been raised by hand.
Squiggles, the youngest at only four weeks old, was also born as a triplet and needed extra feeding support because his mother could only care for two lambs.
Just like our learners, these three lambs are learning and growing every day.
Through this experience, learners expanded their vocabulary with new words including orphaned, triplet, bond, bottle-fed, flock, fur and lanolin.
“Their gentle nature and curious little noses brought instant smiles to everyone,” said Bee.
This practical learning opportunity allowed learners to practise simple English conversations in a real-life context, including asking questions such as, "Why does one of them have a short tail?"
They also strengthened their listening skills and the ability to follow instructions in a fun and engaging environment.
"A perfect blend of learning, laughter and real‑life English, just the way we like it," said Bee.
Each learner received a card about lambs, which the class read together. They even had the opportunity to bottle-feed the lambs.
“We enjoyed the special chance to bottle‑feed the lambs, feeling their tiny hooves press forward as they drank,” said Bee
It was a wonderful and unique experience, offering learners a glimpse into Kiwi farm life while creating lasting memories.
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Relevant Teaching Resources
We have a teaching resource on our website all about Spring in New Zealand.
