Children at a Teignmouth primary school raised money from cake sales and a raffle to fund a recent encounter with exotic animals.

Millie the millipede, Skippy the frog, Alexis the snake and Faye the polecat were among the animals that spent a morning visiting children in nursery and Key Stage 1 at Our Lady and St Patrick.

As well as learning about each animal’s habitat, behaviour and role in the ecosystem, the children were encouraged to ask questions before getting the opportunity to handle the visitors.

Marie Pulman, the handler from Animals2USouthwest, who shared interesting facts about each animal, hoped the experience would help the children get a better understanding of the diverse species on the planet and the importance of conservation.

‘For many, this was their first time getting so close to such unique creatures and the experience left them amazed and inspired,’ a spokesperson from Our Lady and St Patrick said. ‘The children were incredibly brave and Marie remained patient throughout, particularly with children who were a little less sure of the snake. The school would like to thank her very much for this and for the entire experience,’ the spokesperson added.

Comments from the children throughout the morning included: ‘I didn’t know frogs could climb’ and ‘I didn’t know snakes had teeth’.

The visit is part of the school’s ongoing efforts to provide students with interactive and engaging educational experiences.

‘Animals2USouthwest’s visit to Our Lady and St Patrick's School was not just about animals, it was about creating lasting memories and sparking a passion for the natural world. The event undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the children, encouraging them to explore, protect, and appreciate the wonders of wildlife,’ commented the Our Lady and St Patrick spokesperson. ‘The children should feel particularly proud that they funded the entire event themselves.’