EDUCATION PROGRAMME :

behavioural enrichment

 
 

Ever wonder how we keep a cheeky Kea busy or a curious Capuchin engaged? Learn how our dedicated keepers at Natureland Zoo ensure every animal—from the smallest lizard to the most playful farm friend—continues to use their inquisitive mind and express natural behaviours.

Guided by our Educator, students will get a "behind-the-scenes" look at the science of animal well-being. They’ll have the exciting, hands-on opportunity to design and create interactive enrichment items for our residents!

From complex puzzles and scent trails to surprising new ways to play, students will explore the creative side of conservation. It’s more than just fun; it’s a deep dive into why mental stimulation is vital for the health and happiness of the wildlife we care for.

 

LEARNING OUTCOMES

 

Years 0-6 

-Understand how behavioural enrichments suits animals’ specific adaptations

-Match behavioural enrichment items with the correct animal for their specific adaptation/ habitats

-Physically create behavioural enrichment items that will eventually be delivered to specific animal groups

 

Years 7-8

Same as above, with the addition of:

Understand the concept of behavioural stereotyping and its importance when caring for animals in a zoo setting.

 

CURRICULUM

 

Science – Living World 

Ecology Level 1-2 –Recognize that living things are suited to their particular habitat

Ecology Level 3-4 - Explain how living things are suited to their particular habitat and how they respond to environmental changes, both natural and human-induced

Ecology Level 5 - Investigate the interdependence of living things (including humans) in an ecosystem.

 

 

Science – Nature of Science

Understanding about Science, Investigating in Science, Communicating in Science, Participating and Contributing.

 

Physical Education

Relationships with other people Level 1-2

Demonstrate respect through sharing and cooperation in groups

Identify and demonstrate ways of maintaining and enhancing relationships between individuals and within groups

Healthy Communities and environments Level 1-2

Take individual and collective action to contribute to environments that can be enjoyed by all

Contribute to and use simple guidelines and practices that promote physically and socially healthy classrooms, schools and local environments

Movement concepts and motor skills Level 4

Experience and demonstrate how science, technology, and the environment influence the selection and use of equipment in a variety of settings.

 

Education for Sustainability

Responsibility for Action, Sustainability, Interdependence, Biodiversity

What do we want for our young people? (New Zealand Curriculum, p8)

Be actively involved – participate in a range of life contexts, contribute to the well-being of New Zealand – socially, culturally, economically and environmentally.

This means Sustainability is a significant theme throughout the principles and values of the national curriculum in Aotearoa New Zealand and is important for a broad education. (New Zealand Curriculum, p16)

Session duration: Sessions with a facilitator will last for approx. 45 minutes. Outside this time, you are free to explore the Zoo. Most schools plan to arrive for 9:30am opening.

 

Costs:

  • Students- 9$ each

  • Teacher/parents- 13$ each

  • Free Teacher/parent within ratios:

    • Early Learning Centers are allowed 1 complimentary adult pass per 4 children

    • Primary and Highschool groups are allowed 4 complimentary adult passes.

    • All other groups 1 complimentary adult pass per group