Yorkshire Wildlife Park being beaming into schools for online learning

The Branton based attraction has launched a new version of its award-winning sessions both online and on park visits as part of a reassessment of providing world class education in a Covid safe environment.

Virtual visits, including live Q & A sessions from Project Polar, are being offered to schools to inspire studies and animal conservation.

The virtual visits connect schools with the Wildlife Discovery Classrooms at the park where sessions with live animals will be broadcast along with opportunities to talk to the education team live from the ten-acre Project Polar, home to three polar bears. They were launched after a comprehensive review into how to support schools with new and revised programmes in light of the pandemic and ongoing restrictions.

Jade Bancroft, education manager at the park has been amazed at the response from schools: “Since the schools returned, nine have been to visit the park and we have delivered seven of the virtual sessions already. This has been an incredible response and it is wonderful that even though times are difficult for everyone, we are still able to inspire children about wildlife and the wonderful animals at the park. There is a lot of interest from schools who realise the importance of teaching out of the school environment and YWP is an extensive outdoor attraction with a great education offer, it is an attractive proposition.”

The teachers from the schools praised the park for the organised and safe arrangements.

The park has also introduced walking expedition tours aimed at Key Stage 2 pupils. These feature visits to the South America, Africa or the brand-new Himalayan Pass & Experience Ethiopia reserves. These tours last an hour, giving schools plenty of time to explore the rest of the park.

“We are determined to give schools and children opportunities to learn about and get close to our animals even during these challenging times,” said Jade.

“The virtual visits are packed with fascinating facts and information about our animals and they can be booked as stand-alone visits or as a post-visit experience.”

FROM THE EDITOR

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