More wool pulling or finally the right answer?
A new dawn for New Zealand's struggling strong wool sector or déjà vu all over again?
Wool in Schools was set up by Campaign for Wool (CFW), a global initiative spearheaded by Prince Charles to raise awareness about wool. In fact, Prince Charles opened the programme’s first wool shed – a converted shipping container – at Tawa Intermediate in 2015.
Schools apply via the Wool in Schools website and when there is enough demand in an area a shed is dispatched. A shed will typically spend between one and two weeks at each site.
The experience takes approximately 30 minutes, where children pass through a series of interactive stations learning about wool processes and the different uses and benefits of wool.
There is even a mini loom in the container so they can have a go at weaving.
CFW says demand was so high that in 2018 a second container was created to better support South Island schools. Visits are free for schools, with the project funded by CFW and sponsored by PGG Wrightson Wool. Each school’s wool shed experience usually includes a visit from a local PGG Wrightson team member to add an even greater depth of knowledge for students. Chair of Campaign for Wool NZ Tom O’Sullivan says he is pleased with the response to the project. “It’s a fantastic milestone to have reached 25,000 pupils, a real privilege. My two daughters have been through the Wool Shed themselves and still talk about it at home.”
Wool in Schools’ project manager Vicki Lindstrom says one exhibit that seems to really stand out for child and adult alike is the tennis ball exhibit.
“Many people don’t realise that wool is used to cover tennis balls and are delighted to learn that New Zealand wool is chosen for the tennis balls at Wimbledon, due to its ‘crimp’ factor which gives the balls the best bounce.”
O’Sullivan says that CFW is always looking for creative and inspiring ways to share the message about wool.
“Younger generations are really tuned into the need for more sustainable ways of living, including moving away from cheap plastic-fibre products which are doing so much damage to our planet.
“We hope we can help inspire them early on to create and innovate with wool for a better future.”
Read All About It
Campaign for Wool recently partnered with Geraldine farmer and author Christine Taylor whose childrens’ book Jock Visits the Neighbours follows the adventures of a highland terrier who visits a nearby sheep farm. CFW has sent the book to schools around the country for their libraries.
