Year 8 visit Marwell Zoo

The whole of Year 8 visited Marwell Zoo with their Science teachers on the 17th and 18th of September.  Each half of the year travelled by coach to the zoo and arrived at opening time. Both days were excellent, as the zoo was quiet and the weather favourable (just a splash of rain on Thursday). 

The students were in their teaching groups and went around in those groups for the day. The day consisted of analysing the animals for their adaptations to the habitats they came from. Adaptations and evolution will be the topic they will be covering next in their Science lessons.  We were treated to baby giraffes, white rhinos and snow leopards. Most of the animals were out enjoying the autumn sunshine. 

All the students attended an ‘Adaptations and Evolution’ workshop, where they learnt about the evolution of the big cats and got to ask many questions to an excellent speaker. 

We enjoyed lunch in the sun and a final visit to the popular shop at the end of the day. The journey home by coach went smoothly and everyone had a great day and an excellent learning experience. 

Some students entered a photo competition on our return and 1st prize was won by Rafferty Hinton (8Ridigeway) - a beautiful Zebra.  2nd prize went to Graham Day (8Otter) - a Meerkat on guard. 

Jane Tyler, Teacher of Science & Team Leader KS3 Science