Yesterday afternoon Mendip Studio School students made their first visit to meet partners at the Living Rainforest near Thatcham. The group included students working on plant projects and reptile projects in their Mendip R & D sessions.

Plant group students toured the site with horticulturalists Peter Clark and Charlotte May-Miller, learning about the amazing diversity of tropical plants grown at the Living Rainforest and identifying opportunities for new orchid features.

The Reptile Group with Animal Keeper Tina Bouttle looked at the provision and care of a wide range of animals including insects, amphibians and reptiles.

Plans are in hand for Charlotte to come to Mendip get some orchid training from the team here and then to visit the permanent displays at the Bristol Botanic Garden and Aquarium to begin planning three new exciting permanent orchid planting schemes at the Living Rainforest.

We are very excited for the newxt few years of partnership which will deliver fantastic experiences for Mendip students as well as enhancing both institutions.