Southfields Primary School re-homed the hens from Allesley at a re-homing put on by the British Hen Welfare Trust in May. Paul Tuffin, the school’s Head Teacher, revealed: “There was great excitement in our outdoor area when the hens first emerged from our new chicken coop and the whole school will play a part in taking care of the new arrivals.”

The idea was hatched after a piece of land became available on the school grounds. Mr Tuffin said: “I have had hens myself for years and this seemed like the ideal opportunity to re-home some and show the children of inner city Coventry where eggs really come from. Some students in particular have really taken to them and regularly offer to collect the eggs. It has been lovely allowing the children time to sit and watch them.”

The charity is also in the midst of developing a new Learning Programme which is due to be launched in the autumn. Resources will be uploaded online where schools will be able to download educational content and/or book a workshop to be carried out by a charity volunteer and their hens. Schools interested in being involved are encouraged to get in touch with the charity on 01884 860084.

The British Hen Welfare Trust is well-known for its pioneering work in re-homing commercial laying hens and through its nationwide team of 450+ volunteers has found homes for more than 550,000 hens since starting in 2005. As well as finding homes for hens, the charity also educates the public on how they can make a difference to hen welfare through their shopping basket and eating habits.

If you would like to adopt some chickens the charity will be re-homing in Allesley on Sunday, 25th June. All you need to do is register online at www.bhwt.org.uk and then call 01884 860084 to book your girls.