Learning beyond the classroom EYFS/KS1 trip to Noah’s Ark
Written by: Sophie Pring, Victoria Butcher and Heidi Hall from Bronze LOtC Mark School Frome Vale Primary in Bristol.
Within our team (Reception and KS1) we strive to develop citizens of the world by providing opportunities to embrace diversity, develop positive values, teach life skills, and love learning. Together we decided we wanted to provide the children with an experience which was engaging and unforgettable, eventually deciding on a trip to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm.
The visit was aimed at building on the children’s prior knowledge and understanding of animals and allowing them to embed their knowledge through a real-life, hands-on experience.
Once the details had been finalised and shared with the children, there was a great buzz of excitement throughout our corridor (and this wasn’t only from the children!).
The main purpose of our trip to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm was to consolidate the children’s prior learning and understanding about animals, as this is one of the science topics covered in Reception and Key Stage One. Throughout our visit, the children were able to see a variety of animals up close, whilst also learning about conservation and the effects people can have on nature.
During the tour of the zoo, the children had opportunities to see farmyard animals, reptiles and birds of prey as well as the big zoo animals, including elephants, rhinos, zebras, bears, and lions. The children were close enough to be able to count the number of toes on an ostrich, have a meerkat run under their feet, and admire the neck of a giraffe. The children were able to explore the grounds of the zoo, bringing engagement and curiosity to a new level. We had discussions about the environments that the animals were being kept in and how we felt about this from an ethical perspective. We discussed the concept of conservation and breeding to protect species. Wonderful!
They were especially excited and wowed by their workshop, as this allowed for a hands-on experience; they were touching and holding animals such as snakes and cockroaches! How many people could say they have held a cockroach?! The older children explored a variety of skulls to see if the teeth could give a clue as to whether the animal had been a herbivore, carnivore or omnivore.
We could not replicate this kind of fascinating learning in school. Everyone was totally engaged. The workshop promoted a new passion and love for learning and gave a real WOW factor.
Since returning to school, the children continually discussed their visit to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, still with the same delight and eagerness as they had on the day.
What we’ve learnt from going outside the classroom
To embed knowledge and understanding about a wide range of animal species and habitats, and actively share this together.
Offering children these memorable experiences will remain throughout their lives.
