Lower Sixth Biology students spent Thursday at Whipsnade Zoo. In addition to visiting the most popular attraction in East England, the students also attended two interactive conservation seminars run by zoo staff as part of the trip. These sessions were superb and allowed revision and application of the A-level Biology course.
The first seminar explored the role of a modern zoo and the extensive science, research and practical realities involved, as well the importance of good zoos for global conservation. Studbooks and breeding information from the zoo’s own animals were given as part of group problem solving tasks.
The second seminar was an interactive look at the history of classification and its roll in conservation, featuring a very large collection of animal skeletons. The students then had plenty of time to search out their favourite animals from the seminars before heading back to the College.
All in all, a great day was had, with students given the chance to consider their opinions on ex-situ conservation and ask experts in the field their questions. Many thanks to Mrs Fonseka-McFarlane and the Biology Department.
