WEST Midland Safari Park’s education department has been given top marks after scooping a national accolade for its service.

The Bewdley-based attraction’s educational visits have been awarded a coveted Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) Quality Badge.

Staff received the recognition from the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom (CLOtC), who recognise organisations that provide quality learning opportunities that coincide with the National Curriculum.

The Park has been welcoming students from schools, colleges and universities since its opening 45 years ago, and has been committed to providing curriculum-linked sessions for over 10 years.

Last year marked the opening of the Park’s Safari Academy - an outstanding, sustainably-built teaching facility, housing five classrooms specifically designed for visiting education groups.

A variety of curriculum-linked activities and sessions are offered, all of which include either artefacts or the chance to meet some of the Park’s smaller, friendlier animals.

Newly-appointed Education Manager, Nicola Anslow, said: “Our aim is to get children and young people out of the classroom and provide them with engaging and challenging experiences to help them learn in different ways.

“Our fantastic facilities enable students to have access to continuous and progressive experiences in a wonderful learning environment.

“We are really pleased to be awarded the LOtC Quality Badge. This fully recognises the hard work and dedication of our Education Team here at the Safari Academy.”

As well as interactive sessions housed in the Academy, the Education Team deliver guided tours of the four-mile Safari Drive-through and walk-through areas, such as the impressive Land of the Living Dinosaurs.

Further information and tickets are available from the website www.safariacademy.co.uk or by contacting the Education Team on 01299 404888 or email: education@wmsp.co.uk.