Beer pupils have the Hatch Factor!

THIS chick may not have the X Factor but it certainly came out of its shell when Beer Primary School pupils took part in the Hatch Factor earlier this year.

The innovative scheme to hatch chicks in classrooms was first launched last year to help reconnect children with the food they eat.

The aim of the programme is to enable children to hatch chicks in the classroom and have fun learning about the lifecycle of chicken as they watch the chicks grow.

After a week or so in the classroom, Hatch Factor chicks are re-homed at The Big Sheep near Bideford in North Devon, where children visiting with their schools or families can check on their progress.

One of the first schools to take part in the initiative was Beer Primary early in the spring term.

Martin O'Mahony, headteacher, said: "It's something very real. They have seen on the news about free range farming so this was a first hand experience not only the life cycle and it gives them an insight as it was quite topical."

The Hatch Factor has been developed by The Devonshire Red from poultry producer 2 Sisters Willand and family tourist attraction The Big Sheep, Bideford, best known for its world famous sheep racing.

Andrew Maunder, commercial director of 2 Sisters Willand, said: "Helping children learn about where their food comes from is one of the best ways we can support our food and farming industry."

"With The Big Sheep we're committed to raising awareness, and The Hatch Factor has been an immediate hit."

Even celebrity chef Jamie Oliver a Hatch Factor fan.

He said: "Me and my girls did The Hatch Factor at home. It was amazing. For them to see the chicks emerging from the eggs, then holding them when they're all fluffed up, its something all kids should experience."

To find out more about the Hatch Factor ring (01884) 35577.