Throughout the day, students took part in a careers-focused tour of the zoo, looking beyond the animals to discover the many jobs that help the zoo operate every day. Students saw carpenters putting the finishing touches to part of the new rhino enclosure, watched zookeepers feeding and carrying out health checks on the animals, and gained an insight into the teamwork required to care for the zoo's residents.

One of the highlights of the visit was meeting Dr Holly Farmer, Research Manager across Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo. Dr Farmer shared her inspiring journey into her current role, explaining the different jobs and experiences that helped her along the way. Our students asked thoughtful and engaging questions and showed a real interest in learning about careers in research, conservation and animal welfare.

The day was a huge success and reminded us what a fantastic year group we have. Students looked out for one another within the wider community, demonstrated integrity throughout the visit and fully embraced every opportunity to learn and ask questions. It was a brilliant first trip of the year and a memorable first experience of careers education, helping our students to aspire to future pathways and careers that they may one day pursue.