When I was at the Radcliffe school, Mr Buckle was my biology teacher. But he knew my love of animals and always encouraged and supported me in caring for the school animals. On the eve of the sow giving birth, he allowed me to spend the night peacefully watching her. (something that would never be allowed today) I can remember him coming into the shed from his room in the early hours and saying, I think she might start better if we give her a bit of quiet, they are very private animals. Come and have a cup of tea and by the time we get back i think she will have started. A cup of tea later and she had given birth to the first 2. The rest came thick and fast after that and we were able to help the piglets to safety allowing them to suckle without getting squashed. This had such a profound effect on me, showing me such a peaceful and intuitive way to work with animals and children alike. Gentleness, listening understanding and joy all wrapped up in a parcel. Thank you Mr Buckle for showing me how life should be and influencing me in my work as an educator in mainstream education and in my work with animals. With love Shelley Claxton.