School staff rescue trapped hedgehog

Teachers at Carr Mill Primary School found a hedgehog stuck in a storm drain and called the RSPCA. An Animal Rescue Officer arrived to free the trapped hedgehog, leaving both the children and staff thrilled by the successful wildlife rescue.

Published:

03/11/25
Placeholder

School staff act fast

At Carr Mill Primary School in St Helens, Merseyside, Early Years Manager, Lauren Williams and KS2 teacher, Alex Taylor, spotted a hedgehog trapped 12 inches down a storm drain in the playground, in May of this year (2025). Together,  they tried their best to safely free the hedgehog, but he was wedged in too tightly and they didn’t want to distress him more than he already was. That’s when they contacted us.  

“Eventually we knew we’d have to call the RSPCA for help, as we didn’t want to stress the hedgehog out, and they were brilliant,” said Lauren.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer, Libby Addy, arrived at the school and was able to rescue the hedgehog from the drain using a snake hook (the hedgehog’s friends will never believe this story when he tells them!). 

Thankfully, the hedgehog was uninjured after his ordeal, and was released back into the wild.

The staff at Carr Mill Primary school did everything right and we’re so thankful for their help, this large hedgehog was just wedged in too tightly – but I’m glad we were able to get him out and on his way safely.

Libby Addy, RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer

Pupils witness a wildlife rescue in action

The rescue mission was a success thanks to the team effort involved: with the quick-thinking staff, expert RSPCA rescuer and curious children watching. The school’s pupils were fascinated and inspired by the rescue, and it gave staff the chance to talk about protecting wildlife and the role the RSPCA plays. “It was a good opportunity to educate the kids about wildlife, and what to do if they find any wild animals who need help,” Lauren added.

It might have even sparked a few future careers in animal care!

Over 2,000 Wildlife Friends signed up last year to help animals thrive.

Join our network of Wildlife Friends

We’re so grateful to the staff at Carr Mill Primary, and to everyone who looks out for wildlife in their communities. If you’re feeling inspired and empowered, why not sign up to be a Wildlife Friend and do your bit to help wildlife?

Become a Wildlife Friend

Related content