School Visits and Education

The Stratford Butterfly Farm offers an excellent opportunity for children to learn about tropical rainforests, insects and other animals. The Meet the Mini-beasts tour lasts for about one hour and includes handling sessions with large and small insects and of course mini-beasts such as Millipedes and Giant Land Snails. All guided tours are lead by an experienced member of staff who will be able to present the animals in each of our sections in a way that children will find entertaining and educational. (For those that would like a more specific topic, we can offer the Up the Amazon and Lifecylcles and Change tours. Be sure to specify which you would prefer if you are studying a particular topic with your class.

	Our Meet the Minibeasts tour begins with a brief introduction to the tropics and a detailed examination of the huge Owl butterflies feeding on our fruit table. The group then strolls into the caterpillar room to discover more about lifecycles and metamorphosis. We look at camouflage, enormous caterpillars and stop to watch butterflies emerging from their chrysalides. The group then spends 15 minutes in the main butterfly jungle looking for Iguanas, Hummingbirds and Koi Carp amongst the lush tropical environment.
After the Butterfly flight area we enter Insect city where the experienced guide will get lots of fascinating animals out for you to hold (if you want to!). Giant Stick Insects, Hissing Cockroaches and plenty more. Finally we enter Arachnoland where our Tarantula will sometimes make an appearance. If you are lucky he may be allowed to walk on your hand!
	There can be little doubt that children love to see and hold these beautiful and remarkable creatures. Why not bring them to the farm for a great day out and an experience they will never forget.

School visits should be booked well in advance. We are very busy in the spring and summer months and if you have a specific date in mind you will need to book it early. The school group rate is £3.20 per child or teacher with one free teacher for every 20 children.

Finally, why not Email us for information of our Special Topics programme for 2006.