All Creatures Great and Small: Winterfold’s Joyful Pet Blessing

Winterfold’s Secret Garden came alive with wagging tails, gentle purrs, and the occasional squawk on Thursday 2nd October, as the school community gathered for its much-loved annual Pet Blessing.

Led by Father Lamb, alongside Mrs Howarth and the Spiritual Leaders team, the service was a celebration of all creatures — great, small, furry, feathered, and even hooved! The peaceful garden setting provided a perfect space for quiet reflection, as pupils and staff brought along their cherished pets to be blessed.

Musical accompaniment was provided by Mr Price on keyboard, with a joyful performance of All Things Bright and Beautiful setting the tone for the morning.

In true Winterfold spirit, the morning was filled with warmth, laughter and a few surprises — including the arrival of Dolly Bird, a horse making her debut appearance at the event, much to the delight of the children.

Alongside dogs, cats, gerbils, hamsters, chicks and ferrets, Dolly Bird was part of a diverse and much-adored group of animals who helped turn the blessing into a memorable celebration of life, love and friendship.

“It was a truly bonkers but beautiful morning,” said one member of staff. “Events like this are what make Winterfold so special — a strong sense of community, joy, and a willingness to celebrate life in all its wonderful forms.”

Now a treasured tradition, the Pet Blessing is an opportunity for pupils to reflect on the values of compassion, care, and responsibility — all central to The Winterfold Way.