Reptile Encounters
There’s more than the usual risk teaching Year 9 boys when you let them hold a live salt-water crocodile. And a python longer than a door. Or a stick insect, for that matter. There were so many things I thought might go wrong. The presenter might be boring, or the boys might not be engaged – but to my absolute delight, the exact opposite was true.
Bryce not only educated the boys on each of the various species he brought, but on their ecosystems and survivability as a whole. He managed impertinent questions, side-conversations and the occasional interruption from excited teenagers with ease.
So much happened in that hour, I almost forgot about the goanna: which thankfully wasn’t in the most active mood that day. Now, you might be forgiven for thinking that the picture of Bryce above is staged: that nobody looks as happy or enthusiastic without posing.
You’d be wrong.
Every animal was different, and seemed healthy and calm in the hands of not only our expert, but the children themselves. (I only wish I had permission to show you the joy on their faces.)
Before long I found it impossible to resist getting up and having my photos taken like everybody else.
From the first few minutes until the last, I knew for certain that Reptile Encounters would become a staple of my Outdoor Skills program: because not only are live animals amazing, but the passion of our presenter was infectious, and his communication skills were outstanding.
And, from a logistical point of view, the administration was helpful and clear. I was given clear reminders via email and my phone as to when our incursion was set – the kind of help that every busy teacher needs.
Overall, I’d give Reptile Encounters an A+, based on the following criteria:
Punctuality
Communication
Engagement
Creatures
The school was abuzz – and not just the students – as soon as word spread that live animals were around. I’m looking forward to that feeling again.
Thank you!