A Walk on the Wild Side

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Yorkshire, lies a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers—the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, where Louth Academy students were invited to take part in an ‘Employability Day’ workshop.

This workshop was designed for students to learn about the variety of different jobs on offer at YWP and the key transferable skills required in order to do them.

This expansive park, spanning over 70 acres, offers a captivating journey through various habitats and an opportunity to witness diverse species up close.

Upon entering the park, visitors are greeted by a world teeming with life.

The park's primary mission revolves around conservation, education, and providing a safe environment for endangered species.

Its layout, designed to mimic natural habitats, ensures both the comfort of the animals and an immersive experience for guests.

A trip to Yorkshire Wildlife Park transcends the typical zoo visit, offering a journey through diverse habitats and a chance to witness animals thriving in environments mirroring their natural homes.

It's an experience that not only entertains but also educates, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world's diverse wildlife.

As part of the workshop, the students worked in teams to design their own zoo.

The project manager in each team oversaw the budget, which they had to balance as effectively as possible, in order to be a success. Each team, presented their new zoo to the group.

Following their workshop, students enjoyed learning about many of the parks endangered animals and the conservation that takes place at the YWP.

In the afternoon, students enjoyed looking around the park and seeing the animals close up. Students even managed to spot the elusive Cheetah as well as the polar bears, lions and giraffes.

Y7 Amelia Koncar said “I absolutely loved designing the zoo with my team and seeing the giraffes in real life!”

Beyond its display of wildlife, Yorkshire Wildlife Park actively participates in conservation efforts and educational programs.

Students engaged in talks, feeding sessions, and educational exhibits, learning about conservation challenges faced by various species and the critical importance of preserving natural habitats.

STEM Lead at Louth Academy Miss Reynolds said: “Students really excelled in the zoo challenge today! Under pressure, with limited time, they really pulled together and worked effectively as a team in order to succeed. They had a great day observing some really magnificent animals.”

At Louth Academy, STEM is prioritised because it helps students develop a skill set paramount to their success in the next stage of their lives; we see value in helping students to develop their problem solving and communication skills.

STEM allows students to learn outside of the classroom and in a hands-on manner. Often, in settings such as the YWP.