Pygmy goats are set to become the latest addition to Headlands School's ever-growing assortment of amiable animals.

A letter sent to neighbours states that an undisclosed number of the miniature pets are due to arrive at some point next month.

They will join four alpacas, Dexter the dog, a brood of hens and a raft of ducks as part of the school's Animal Learning Centre.

Headlands' therapeutic approach to development caters for children aged between seven and 19.

Run by the charity Action for Children, the school's model is designed for children and young people who have experienced early developmental trauma and those with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Conditions.

The ducks arrived just two weeks ago and occupy a recently installed pond. Pupils and staff also recently set about building a wildflower bed.

"We will soon be planning to home two Pygmy Goats with a view to welcoming them to our school in May 2021," explains the letter.

"Upon arrival, our Young People and school staff will care for them here in our grounds.

"We are all looking forward to our new arrivals."

Pygmies are a miniature, genetically dwarfed breed of goat that originated from the Cameron Valley, West Africa.

According to the British Goat Society, "the adult Pygmy has a maximum height at the withers (tallest point on back) of approximately 56 cm for males, less for females, short legs and cobby bodies that give an impression of perpetual pregnancy.

"They can be any colour except completely white, with white Swiss markings on the face not allowed.

"They are generally quiet and docile, but there is some variation, as one would expect with goats."