“We’re all going to the zoo tomorrow, Zoo tomorrow, zoo tomorrow. We’re all going to the zoo tomorrow. We can stay all day”
Over the weekend I was invited to Taronga Zoo for the 2016 Education launch along with a number of other Principals and Executives from NSW Government schools. It was an opportunity to hear about the educational programs that would be on offer throughout the new year and to hear about the centenary celebrations. I was inspired, captivated and motivated to introduce the zoo to my school in term one.
We often visit Taronga Zoo as a family. It is an amazing site with Sydney’s best view over the harbour. The Education Launch provided a different spin. I was interested in how the Zoo could accommodate the needs of high school students with additional needs. Were excursions developed that would meet curriculum outcomes across all stages? Was professional development opportunities available? I must say, all my questions were answered during our visit.
Our day at Taronga Zoo started just before opening. We checked in and were directed down to the Great Southern Oceans exhibit where we were treated to an exclusive Seal Show experience. oh my! You will know from my previous posts about Sea World San Diego, that we are not supportive of animals performing solely for the pleasure of humans. We were reassured that the seals at Taronga are rare, rescued or injured. Rather than performing, the show focuses on practicing and reinforcing seal natural behaviours. They were positively reinforced throughout the show and the entire focus was on education. The trainers spoke about the importance of sourcing sustainable MSC certified seafood and modelled how plastics and litter left on the side of the road can make its way into our oceans with dire consequences. We sat in the second row and ended up wet much to the kids delight.
Following the Seal Show we were treated to a little presentation. Did you know that Taronga Zoo was officially opened on October 7th, 1916. Next year marks the Taronga Zoo Centenary which boasts an enormous Education Program through the year and a commitment to 10 legacy species. Yes, Taronga Zoo is committing to ensuring the ongoing conservation of 5 Australian species and 5 Sumatran species that are currently at threat of extinction. I’m positive they are going to ensure these animals will still be around for my grandchildren to see.
To mark the Centenary, during Term One every student attending Taronga Zoo on a school excursion will receive a free lantern making kit and a return ticket so they can attend the Twilight Lantern Walk in May/June. I better tell Master R and Miss N’s teachers too! Doesn’t it sound exciting?
After the presentation concluded we headed off to spot the African animal exhibits before heading to the QBE Free-Flight Bird Show which was mind blowing. If you ever head to Taronga Zoo, make sure you see this show where a range of amazing Australian birds and a vulture will soar over your head, land on a few audience members and show you their skills while you look across the amazing harbour vista.
The remaining few hours saw us head to some of our most favoured animal exhibits, enjoying lunch and then ice-cream at the zoo cafe and counting bush turkeys. What an amazing day!
Interested in hearing more about the Centenary program for schools as they are revealed? Head over to the Education Signup Page so you don’t miss the latest news including the New Geography syllabus – ‘Taronga Wild Schools Challenge’.
Your review of the zoo is great. I just arrived in Sydney with family. We are from the USA. Plan on going to the zoo Sunday dec 6. Any advice? We will take the ferry over to there. Tx. Found your link through the family travel tribe page.
Christine Meckley.
Currently on a half year round the world trip with 2 kids
Hi Christine, welcome to Sydney! You’re going to have so much fun in our city – there’s so much to do!
Probably the only issue with Taronga is the lack of shade. Pack sunscreen and hats. Do you have swimmers with you? If your kids are under 10 there’s a couple of water play areas which provide an opportunity to cool off so pack a towel and swimsuits if you can. I usually pack snacks and lunch, but you can buy it.
I would get there as early as possible. If you’re catching the ferry over, I usually try to catch one over before 9, I then catch the bus up to the main gates although you can use the sky safari. (I use it later in the day). Make sure to track the time of the seal and bird shows- you won’t want to miss them. If you want to feed a giraffe make sure you buy tickets early.
Hope this helps