Pupils Experience Real-Life Scent Tracking in Mantrailing Session

 

Some year 6 pupils recently took part in a unique outdoor learning experience as they were introduced to the world of mantrailing during a special session led by experienced handler Jan from Pets as Therapy, and the school’s therapy dog, Ziggy.

 

Ziggy is The Firs School’s much-loved therapy dog and regularly supports pupils’ wellbeing across the school day. Alongside his handler Jan, Ziggy also takes part in mantrailing training,  a search and rescue technique that teaches dogs to follow a specific person’s scent trail, a skill widely used by emergency services and search teams.

 

During the session, pupils first learned how scent works and how trained dogs can identify and follow an individual’s unique trail. They discovered the importance of teamwork, communication and patience in supporting a working dog while tracking.

 

To put their new knowledge into practice, pupils each selected a personal item, such as gloves or a tie to provide Ziggy with a scent reference. One by one, they took turns to hide while their classmates helped guide Ziggy on a long tracking lead as he followed the trail.

 

Excitement grew as Ziggy carefully sniffed the ground and confidently worked out the route, leading the group step by step to each hidden pupil. Every successful find was met with smiles, cheers and a real sense of achievement.

 

Headteacher David Girvan commented:“Experiences like this bring learning to life. At The Firs School, we love seeing our pupils develop confidence, teamwork and curiosity, and watching them work alongside Ziggy was wonderful. They absolutely loved every moment.”