Lamerton pupils enjoy hands-on animal learning during day out at Dartmoor Zoo

Pupils from a West Devon village primary school near Tavistock have taken part in a hands-on learning trip to Dartmoor Zoo.

Children from Class 1 at Lamerton Church of England Academy visited the zoo as part of their studies, taking part in a day focused on animal encounters and interactive learning.

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A highlight of the visit was a “Close Encounters” session led by a zoo keeper, where pupils were introduced to a hissing cockroach and a blue-tongued skink called Mango.

The session gave children the chance to learn about different species at close range, supporting their classroom work.

As part of the trip, pupils also examined a range of animal teeth, learning how their shapes relate to diets, including carnivores, herbivores and omnivores.

Throughout the day, the group saw a variety of animals including tarantulas, a cheetah, lynx, baby meerkats and zebras.

ABOVE: School trip to Dartmoor Zoo gave Lamerton children hands-on learning with animals and habitats

The visit also included time to use Dartmoor Zoo’s play facilities.

Staff at the school said the trip provided a valuable learning experience and praised the pupils’ behaviour and engagement during the day.

Headteacher Melody Sterry said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our pupils to bring their learning to life in a truly memorable way.

“The children were completely engaged throughout the day and showed great curiosity and enthusiasm, particularly during the ‘Close Encounters’ session.

“Experiences like this play such an important role in inspiring a love of learning and helping children make meaningful connections with the world around them.”

ABOVE: School trip to Dartmoor Zoo gave Lamerton children hands-on learning with animals and habitats

Learning Academy Partnership chief executive Tracey Cleverly added: “We are committed to providing rich, real-world learning experiences for all our pupils, and this visit is a wonderful example of that in action.

“Opportunities to explore, ask questions and learn beyond the classroom help to build confidence, curiosity and a deeper understanding of the curriculum.

“It’s fantastic to see our children benefiting from such engaging and well-supported experiences.”

The school said the visit to Dartmoor Zoo was made possible with support from Friends of Lamerton School.