An Autumn term highlight for Year 6 at Vale School is an exciting trip to The Living Rainforest in Berkshire. As part of our study of the history and geography of South and Central America, we learn about the Amazon – the largest rainforest on earth.

The children have the opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and smells of a lush, tropical rainforest environment and explore how plants and animals have adapted to live there. The centre is home to over 700 plants and animals including rare and endangered species of global conservation value.

Seeing animals and birds such as toucans, monkeys, pygmy marmosets, boas, pythons and poison dart frogs is an amazing way to reinforce the learning that has taken place in the classroom and truly inspires a sense of wonder and awe in the children.

Wandering down the narrow pathways, looking up at the canopy of leaves and vines overhead encourages the children to imagine just what it would be like in the rainforest. Some of the animals – lizards and small birds – are free roaming and delight the children as they spot them! A truly magical experience.

Vale School, Vale Avenue, Findon Valley. 01903 872 322. More information at www.vale.w-sussex.sch.uk