Wool in Schools is a PGG Wrightson sponsored initiative to educate and inspire kiwi children about the wonders of wool.

Established in 2015 and comprising converted shipping containers that travel the country visiting schools and sharing knowledge about our fibre, Wool in Schools will shortly pass the 25,000 milestone of students who have participated in the programme.

Going through the Wool Shed takes approximately 30 minutes. Children pass through a series of interactive stations where they learn about wool processes, and the different uses and benefits of wool, in fun and engaging ways. There is even a mini loom in the container to give them a go at weaving.

Wool in Schools, which is a free service to participating schools, was set up by Campaign for Wool, a global initiative spearheaded by HRH The Prince of Wales to raise awareness of the uses and benefits of wool. Prince Charles opened the first Wool Shed at Tawa Intermediate in 2015. Interest from schools has increased steadily since. In 2018 demand grew to a point where a second container was created to better support South Island schools.

Vicki Linstrom, Wool in Schools’ project manager, says one exhibit stands out.

“Many people don’t realise wool is used to cover tennis balls, and are delighted to learn that New Zealand wool is chosen for the tennis balls at Wimbledon, due to its ‘crimp’ factor, which gives the balls the best bounce. It’s fantastic to see young minds starting to think more broadly about wool as a truly versatile fibre, with far greater uses and benefits than just making their clothes.”

Each school’s Wool Shed experience usually  includes a visit from a local PGG Wrightson team member, adding greater depth of knowledge and providing inspiration to the students.