Zoo's summer school is top class

Children will get the chance to go behind the scenes at the zoo

Animal-mad children in Devon are being tempted back to the classroom for the summer holidays to attend a school with a difference.

Local children can gain special access to Paignton Zoo during the holidays by signing up for zoo's summer school.

Now in its fifth year, the summer school offers the chance to go behind the scenes and learn more about wildlife and the environment.

The scheme for children aged from eight to 12 is run by qualified teachers.

Seashore safari

Zoo spokesman Phil Knowling said: "Our summer school is ideal for creative kids who love animals.

"You can meet like-minded children and learn more about the zoo, the animals that live here and our conservation work."

This year there is a tortoise and turtle theme to link up with the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria ShellShock campaign.

Activities will include drama workshops, a seashore safari and wildlife-inspired stories with professional story-teller Chris Waters.