THE Hairy Henry Educational Trust has issued a heartfelt ‘thank you’ after it reached its fundraising goal of €10,000.

The funds will be used to support young teens who experience challenges in school and struggle with regular school attendance, with a 12-week programme entitled ‘Giddy Up & Go’.

Plans are now under way for the very first pilot of this educational programme in 2026. There are five places available, and participation for teens will be free of charge apart from a small once-off registration fee.

The programme aims to work with these teens on personal development, social competence, life skills, self confidence and emotional resilience in order to address their difficulties, and to empower them to achieve their educational goals.

A spokesperson for Hairy Henry said: ‘The programme will take place on the Hairy Henry Care Farm near Bantry on two mornings per week from February to May 2026.

Teens will be guided through tasks around the farm which are practical and hands-on but also offer the acquirement of theoretical knowledge about horses, animal care, farm work and work within nature.

‘The farm environment, the hands-on tasks and the contact with the animals are used for the teens to make new and brave experiences, learn new skills, step out of their comfort zone and learn about themselves and their capabilities which will help them to grow personally and reach their full potential.’

Participants must be aged 12 to 15, enrolled in secondary school, willing to engage in outdoor activities and have parental and school consent.

The Hairy Henry Educational Trust is now inviting applications - application forms are available on request. Application deadline is December 19th and interviews will take place in early January 2026.

If you are a parent or a professional who is interested to find out more, please contact [email protected] or call Sandra on 087 9389867.