Education

High School Animal Welfare Club

October-May Saturday Sessions

The Merrymac High School Animal Welfare Club is a new eight-session Saturday program that will take place over the course of the 2026-2027 academic year. This is a unique opportunity for students to participate in a small group experiential learning program at a GFAS-accredited farm Sanctuary.

Students will learn about the role farm sanctuaries play in advancing animal welfare, gain practical experience caring for rescued farm animals, and explore broader animal welfare topics including advocacy, outreach, and ethics. They’ll connect with like-minded students, participate in educational workshops with guest speakers from Vermont’s animal welfare community, and build leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.

Merrymac is a teaching farm sanctuary that offers humane education through our volunteer programs, internships, service-learning school partnerships, and after-school programs. The Merrymac High School Animal Welfare Club provides a small-group setting for students to learn how they can make the world a more compassionate place for all living beings.

Saturday Sessions 10am-2pm at MMFS

Dates Oct 10, Nov 14, Dec 12, Jan 9, Feb 13, March 13, April 10, and May 8

Program Fee $640, *scholarships and financial aid available, please email for details

Application Deadline September 15

Questions? Email us at education@merrymacfarmsanctuary.org

Students will learn

  • Animal welfare and humane care principles

  • Farmed animal behavior and needs

  • Animal advocacy and community outreach

  • Environmental and ethical issues related to animal welfare

  • Leadership, teamwork, and communication skills

Highlights include

  • Educational workshops and guest speakers

  • Volunteer and service opportunities

  • Leadership development

  • Community impact projects

Why join?

  • Gain real-world experience

  • Earn volunteer/service hours

  • Connect with like-minded students

  • Strengthen college and scholarship applications

  • Help create a more compassionate future for animals

Things to know

  • Activities will be held in an outdoor barn setting with exposure to the elements

  • Students may be exposed to allergens including feathers, fur, and dander from farm animals

How to Apply

Fill out the application form below and submit by September 15. Please feel free to email us. education@merrymacfarmsanctuary.org with any questions.