November 2024
A group 15 Ratton School Year 8 students recently enjoyed an educational visit to Knockhatch Adventure Park in Hailsham. East Sussex County Council's Open Doors initiative, started in 2016, organised the workplace visit.
The students were given insights into the marketing strategy, met with park team members who operate the rides, and went through the Sherlock Holmes Experience. The Zoo team were on hand for questions during the owl display and let the students handle guinea pigs and insects. The students also enjoyed an impromptu PE lesson in the Lost World Playbarn with the massive slides and aerial climbing frames.
By asking the team questions, the students gained valuable insights into the world of work. They learned about the diverse roles within the company, the possibility and benefits of volunteering, and the dedication required for professions like animal keeping.
"Speaking to the team was really useful for the students," Liz Hylands of Ratton School said. "They learned more about how to get a job in the future."
While some students expressed aspirations to pursue careers in medicine or law, the visit offered possibilities of local employment and inspired them to think about their first part time job.