From the moment we arrived, our guide Esther was impressed by how much the children already knew from their Geography, English and Science lessons this year. Their enthusiasm was infectious as they asked thoughtful questions, shared facts of their own, and eagerly read every information poster they could find — with Shivani proudly taking on the role of “class reader”.

As we explored the rainforest pathways, Esther shared fascinating facts about the animals and plants around us. Sophie was intrigued to learn that the poison dart frogs at the centre aren’t actually very poisonous at all — because they don’t eat the toxic ants their wild relatives rely on. Shivani was amazed to discover that the tiny Goeldi’s monkeys can leap an incredible four metres from standing. “They’d win Sports Day easily!” she laughed. Walter was surprised to learn that the impressive‑looking iguanas are mostly vegetarian, and that the spines along their backs are made of keratin — the same material as our fingernails.

One of the highlights of the trip was watching a yellow‑footed tortoise slowly climb in and out of its water bath, much to the children’s delight. Nearby, the large pond became a game of “spot the frog”, with pupils excitedly pointing out one, then another, then another. And although the elusive Cinnamon the sloth was hiding well, we did manage to spot her two long claws — perfectly adapted for clinging to branches high in the canopy.

The visit linked beautifully with our current classroom learning on rainforest animals and plant adaptations. With so many real‑life examples fresh in their minds, pupils are now ready to return to school and begin writing their non‑chronological reports on orangutans. There’s no doubt they’ll soon be experts on how these incredible animals survive in the rainforest.

It was a day full of curiosity, discovery and wonder — and one we’re sure the children will remember for a long time.