We have been very fortunate, thanks to funding received by Promoting Children in Plymouth (PCiP), to give ten Year 9 students the opportunity to build a Meerkat enclosure at Dartmoor Zoo.
Over 10 weeks myself and the students spent every Wednesday at the Dartmoor Zoo, working with staff to design and build the enclosure, putting their practical skills to the test while gaining valuable employability experience.
Throughout the project, students developed essential construction skills, including measuring, cutting, and assembling materials, as well as problem-solving techniques to ensure the enclosure was safe, secure, and suited to the meerkats needs. They also worked on landscaping, learning how to create an engaging and naturalistic habitat.
Beyond the practical elements, the project helped students build key employability skills. Teamwork and communication were crucial, as they had to collaborate effectively to bring their design to life. Time management and organisation played a big role in ensuring the enclosure was completed on schedule, while resilience and adaptability were put to the test when unexpected challenges arose.
By taking part in this project, students have not only contributed to animal welfare but also gained hands-on experience that will support them in future careers - whether in construction, design, animal care, or beyond.
We are so proud of what they have achieved!
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