Inspiring creativity and critical thinking
From years 7 to 11, our secondary school activities provide the perfect opportunity to inspire creative and critical thinking while giving pupils a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Our workshops are designed to empower students to make positive changes in the real world, as well as in the classroom. We not only do this by providing engaging learning environments, but by investigating attitudes, perceptions and behaviour.
Read on to see how we can help shape your school’s visit to one of our zoos.

Meet and greet
We’ll begin your visit by meeting you on arrival and giving you a short welcome, complete with important information, all the latest zoo news and a special challenge for your pupils!

Linked learning
We deliver sessions that link to your classroom teaching so that your pupils get the very most out of the day. Just make sure to tell us about your class’s area of study to show the clear link between classroom learning and your visit to the zoo.
Mini sessions
As part of our schools bookings, we offer a free 20-minute mini-session based at one of our enclosures. We’ll tailor the session to complement your specific classroom topic, using our own animals and natural exhibits to illustrate key points.
These sessions not only give young people the chance to see our animals and learn more about them, but encourages pupil observation and participation in a relaxed and informal setting.
In-depth learning
If you prefer a more in-depth experience, such as a full walking tour of the zoo or an indoor activity, we can offer range of indoor sessions at an additional charge. Prices range between £30 and £60 per session.
Click below to find out about our indoor learning options.
KS3 and KS4 Sustainability: Sussed?:
A fun, interactive session that encourage pupils to consider how the choices they make can affect the natural world. This session includes the opportunity to try some edible invertebrates! (45 minutes)
KS4 Conservation Walk & Talk:
Visit several of our enclosures and look at the conservation work of the Wild Planet Trust at the zoo and overseas. (45 minutes)
KS4 Careers:
An introduction to the many varied roles at the zoo, including a 15-minute lecture followed by a 30-minute tour. (45 minutes)
KS4 Tourism and Visitor Attractions:
This session covers the realities of running a zoo, including marketing, growth and the structure of the business. Includes a 15-minute lecture followed by a 30-minute tour. (45 minutes)
KS4 Conservation Walk & Talk:
Visit several of our enclosures and look at the conservation work of the Wild Planet Trust at the zoo and overseas.
Schools Go Free In ‘23
To celebrate Paignton Zoo’s centenary, we are offering free school visits to all students between early years and KS4 (ages 3–16) at both Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo. Contact us to take advantage of this amazing offer.
Book now
To make a booking and discuss what we can offer you, please email or ring us today. All the information you require for a visit, including risk assessment guidelines, will be emailed to you after booking.