3rd March 2026
Year 1 Colchester Zoo Trip
Dear Parents/Carers,
Year 1 have planned a visit to Colchester Zoo on Friday 24th April. This trip is to support our science learning for next term which is all about animals.
We will be leaving school at 9:15am so children will need to arrive at their usual class entrance promptly (at 8:45am). We will be returning to school at approximately 3:00pm for you to pick up your child at the usual time.
For this visit, your child will need to wear their usual school uniform with comfortable footwear (e.g. trainers – not sandals / open toe shoes please). We will be outside for the whole visit so your child will need to be prepared for either wet weather or sunshine - please pack a waterproof coat and a sun hat. The children will be carrying their belongings around with them for the day so could you please ensure they have a bag big enough to put all of their belongings in, ideally a rucksack big enough to carry their lunchbox and water bottle. They will not need any of their usual school books on this day.
All children in KS1 are entitled to a meal provided under the Universal Free School Meal funding. If you would like your child to be provided with a free school packed lunch please indicate on the attached form. Otherwise, please provide your child with a packed lunch and a drink (no glass bottles, sweets or fizzy drinks please).
This trip is a wonderful opportunity for the children to experience seeing the animals in real life. The cost per child is a voluntary contribution of £15.00 which covers the cost of coach travel and entry to the zoo. If you have a zoo pass, please speak to a member of the office team as we will be able to reduce your voluntary contribution.
At Whitehouse, we value educational visits as they enhance learning and provide first-hand experiences. This trip forms part of the curriculum, and we expect all children to attend. If you have any concerns, please contact us to discuss these.
Payments can be made either via the school office or on Arbor. Please return the enclosed consent form and indicate whether you would like the school to provide a packed lunch for your child by Friday 3rd April 2026.
If you have any questions about the trip please feel free to ask.
Thank you for your continued support.
Mrs Bartholomew, Miss Bailey and Mrs Wilcox.
The Year 1 Team