Children from Les Beaucamps High School have started reading to rescue cats to help them with their literacy skills while helping the cats with their socialisation skills.
The initiative aims to give the students a “calm, positive space to practice reading”, while “helping the cats to build confidence around people [as they enjoy] the soothing sound of gentle voices”.
GSPCA Supervisor Anna Paint said it helps out the staff and volunteers at the animal shelter too.
“The students were absolutely wonderful – patient, calm and really engaged with the cats.
“It was lovely watching them sit quietly and read, giving the cats a relaxed and positive experience.”
Ms Paint said the students did a “fantastic job in the cattery”.
Pet owners of tomorrow
The reading sessions will take place every Wednesday afternoon during term time.
Manager Steve Byrne said GSPCA staff were “thrilled” and looking forward to “seeing how their reading sessions help both them and the cats in our care”.
“Education is central to everything we do at the GSPCA, because today’s young people will be the ones caring for the animals of tomorrow,” he added.