Here in the zoo we work whatever the weather. However, as with most people, we prefer to do so in the sun. Especially as it is summertime…

This week however, we have seen a glimpse of the sunshine we associate with summer. The sun came out, the animals, staff and visitors emerged and smiles were seen all around. Our visitors were also sporting less waterproof ponchos (unless taking part in the Lost River Ride where a poncho is always deemed necessary!)

For us here in the Education Centre there is a change in the air. As the schools break up for their holidays our days are no longer spent with schoolchildren on days out. Workshop materials and zoo trails for all ages are tucked away for the summer. However, things don’t stop there. Here at the zoo we take the school holidays as an opportunity to put on Zoo Academy! This is a fun-filled week where kids aged 8-11 become part of the team. Backstage views of the zoo, up-close encounters with our exotic residents, exploring the wild and the native animals we have, and exhilarating games to fill your senses.

What are we expecting this year? No two Zoo Academy weeks are the same and each week sees new kids, new activities and new experiences. This year we are hoping to expand on the popular enrichment activities that took place in the lemur enclosure. We are thinking bigger and messier (papier mâché paste gets everywhere!) This year the Academy preparation has had special help from the zoo keepers – this important input allows the participants to really get hands-on in the zoo and help out the keepers and the animals in a variety of different ways.

To find out more or to book a place (there are only a few places left so book now) please contact the education team on 01653 668287 or contact Cat on [email protected]