For pupils in years 10 and 11
Ecosystems
In this workshop, learners will look into the relationships within ecosystems, gaining an understanding of how species populations are intrinsically linked together. This will lead onto a discussion on how humans are impacting and changing ecosystems.
This session lasts approximately 50 minutes and takes place in the Discovery Centre.
Genetics & Evolution
This workshop will look into individual variation, natural selection, the theory of evolution and inheritance – helping learners understand how and why animals evolve, and why biodiversity and variation is vital for healthy populations and ecosystems.
This session lasts approximately 50 minutes and does involve some outdoor/touring elements (weather permitting).
Role of Zoos
This workshop focuses on the role of zoos; throughout time and in the present day. Learners will discuss how endangered animals are categorised, why different species are threated and what modern zoos are doing to help.
This session lasts approximately 50 minutes and does involve some outdoor/touring elements (weather permitting).
Philosophy & Ethics at the Zoo
Our philosophical and ethical beliefs surrounding nature, particularly captive animals, is continually changing – in part, due to advances in animal welfare science and animal sentience. At the same time, the role of the modern zoo is changing – from animal menageries to 21st century conservation powerhouses. This session will cover topics such as individual animal welfare, population management and welfare, and the role of animals in captivity.
This session lasts approximately 50 minutes and does involve some outdoor/touring elements (weather permitting).
Enrichment Workshop
In this session, learners will explore why enrichment is an important part of keeping our animals happy and healthy here at the zoo. Participants will then be given the opportunity to develop their own piece of enrichment for an animal here at the zoo.
This session lasts approximately 50 minutes and takes place in the Discovery Centre.
History of Dudley Castle
Go back in time to an 11th century Dudley Castle and learn about key events of the time, including life within a castle. In this workshop you will be introduced to the extensive history of Dudley Castle, covering a range of topics including castle defence, the Norman Conquest and the Civil war.
This session lasts approximately 50 minutes and does involve some outdoor/touring elements (weather permitting).
Careers
How do you get a job working with lions, giraffes and chimpanzees? Learn about the wide range of careers available here at Dudley Zoo & Castle, and in zoos around the world, and how those roles are working towards the conservation of species and ecosystems across the globe.
This session lasts approximately 50 minutes and does involve some outdoor/touring elements (weather permitting).
Zoo Tour
Learners will be led on a pre-planned tour around the zoo, stopping at various enclosures and learning facts about our animals here at the zoo. This tour can be tailored to your individual needs, so we encourage you to speak to our team and we will try to accommodate where possible.
This session lasts approximately 50 minutes and takes place outdoors.
Tectons & The Modern Zoo
Starting in our Tecton Safari Gift Shop, this tour will give learners a chance to discover the world’s largest collection of Tectons. Learn why they were built here at Dudley Zoo and how zoo enclosure design has changed since they were first built in 1937. The tour will then carry on around our listed Tecton structures here at the zoo.
This session lasts approximately 50 minutes and does involve some outdoor/touring elements (weather permitting).
The cost per student for each of these sessions is £10. This includes their admission to the Zoo & Castle.
Workshops are subject to availability. For further information or to book a visit please call 01384 215313 or email louise.curtis@dudleyzoo.org.uk
All workshop session plans are embedded with Science and Geography National Curriculum links, as well as core skills within Maths, English and Working Scientifically. Click here for further information.
You will receive one free adult with every 7 paying students, any additional adults are charged at £9.00 each. (SEN groups receive a free carer admission per child). These rates are based upon groups of 10+ students.
We can accommodate a maximum of 30 students per workshop and for the indoor lunch sittings we can provide if requested (as these rooms can accommodate up to 30 students at a time).
Here at Dudley Zoo & Castle we aim to educate children of all ages about the natural world, conservation and history through the use of natural artefacts including skins, skulls and scales. We therefore no longer include live animals in our classroom based workshops. This is to help ensure that both our learners and our animals’ needs are met. Dudley Zoo & Castle is home to over 1300 animals which you and your students will have the opportunity to see whilst exploring our 40 acre site during your visit.
Updated for 2023/2024 Academic Year
