Young explorers from St Gregory’s Catholic Primary in Margate embarked on a learning safari to Wingham Wildlife Park.
Key Stage 1 pupils exploring habitats and micro-habitats in their Science classes further expanded their knowledge with an informative visit that brought them up close to creatures they have been studying.
The adventure began with an informative and engaging workshop where pupils were able to build on their classroom learning by discussing where different animals live and how they have adapted to survive in their environments.
They also learned about how humans can damage habitats and the importance of protecting them. A key message from the session was to “leave no trace,” and the children listened carefully as it was explained that the only thing we should leave behind are our footprints.
During the visit the group saw a wide range of animals including tigers, wolves, lions, giraffes, bears, and apes – their particular favourite was the capybaras.
They also explored the dark nocturnal cave, where they observed bats and night monkeys. They noticed how the enclosures were designed differently depending on the needs of each animal.
Year 1 and 2 teacher Laura Wright said: “It was a fascinating experience and really reinforced the learning that pupils have been enjoying in school. They were able to make meaningful links, such as noticing the night monkeys’ large eyes for seeing in the dark and how meerkats stand watch to protect their group from predators.
“We also noticed how different animals needed different environments to be able to survive.”
The park’s educational workshops on habitats and conservation highlights deforestation impacts through animal habitats like monkey enclosures, covers themes including African safari, cold-blooded reptiles, and jungle ecosystems,
