Is it safe?

I have been teaching using these Roadshows with animals in the UK for over 20 years. We do not bring any dangerous animals into schools, so no crocodiles or tiger snakes. We bring only tame and friendly pet reptiles, amphibians and creepy crawlies and they are used to being handled. We hold the relevant Regulation 16 License to perform this visiting service. David Manning has been Police Checked for working with children, is insured, and licensed to keep native fauna for education and public display.

What about Hygiene?

These creatures are surprisingly clean and all students and teachers are asked to wash hands after each session. We usually have soap free antiseptic hand wash available as well.

How will the children and teachers respond?

The kids just love it, although sometimes a teacher or two needs convincing before having a python around the neck or holding that squishy frog. We make it fun, and we make it optional, so no one is pressured to actually touch or hold the creatures. But almost everyone joins in, looks, interacts, asks questions and learns.

Do you offer accompanying science support material?

We sure do. Once booked we can email a PDF of information covering science topics like: Life cycles, Habitats, Backyard Wildlife, Diet. Or just let us know if you have specific topics you would like us to cover. Have a look at Wildlife Facts and Figures for more information too.

Do the teachers get involved?

Only if they want to. We and the children especially like it when the Principal pops in to look at the lizards, or when teachers show the children how confident they are around native wildlife!

Can parents participate?

One or two extra helpers enhance the shows hugely. We encourage the interaction and learning experience for everyone, so a few parents are welcome to join in.

What about allergies?

I myself am allergic to fur and feathers and as an asthmatic I was drawn to these creatures as pets because they are considered pretty much hypoallergenic.

Why don't we just go to a wildlife park?

You can, but there's the bus hire, the packed lunches, the extra insurances, health and safety and all that hassle. We bring the animals to you, in the pupils familiar surroundings.

What we do.

Each session starts with a brief introduction of the animals and other items we bring along. We then rotate groups of children around the different creatures so everyone gets to see and meet all the creatures.

How we like to do it.

We like to be set up in one place for the day. A hall, library or spare classroom is ideal. We do not necessarily need tables and can perform on the floor, but ideally we like tables and chairs set up in 3 blocks, each able to seat 10. Two tables at the front are adequate for our props and cages.

Each session lasts approximately 50 minutes but can easily be extended if timetable permits. Each group should be around 30, however, if you only have 20 in a group the kids get even more out of it.

How much does it cost?

We charge a fee of $190 + gst per session, with a maximum of 30 students (one class) per session. We do however have a minimum fee of $570 + gst for a visit, which represents 3 sessions or classes. With 30 per session it works out at $6.33 per child ex gst. We can accommodate up to 5 sessions per day. For outer Perth and country areas a mileage fee will be charged.

Please contact us for more information, as our little creatures are very keen to meet yours, wherever you are!

For more information or to book please phone David or Jenny on
08 9243 3044 or email us on info@animalark.com.au