STUDENTS have taken time out from lessons to meet meerkats and tarantulas and go trekking in Hamsterley Forest.

Ferryhill Business and Enterprise College took part in a Big Learning Day on Tuesday. (July 15)

A number of activities were held including a visit by the Jay’s Animal Encounters team who brought in meerkats, tarantulas, snakes and other animals for the college’s 600 pupils to see.

Some of the pupils at the college, on Merrington Road, in Ferryhill, headed out to Hamsterley Forest for a day of trekking and outdoor activities as part of the event.

Durham Police officers were also present and they gave a display of their work in the community and the force’s drugs dogs also gave a demonstration of their search techniques.

Lynne Gibson, director of learning for business and enterprise at the college, said: “The children have really good fun and they enjoy the Big Learning Day.

“We do these days regularly at the school and this was the third event like this which has taken place over this school year.

“They are enjoyable and the pupils are able to learn new skills through the activities which they are able to do.”