An elephant beside a waterhole can hold a child’s attention in a way a picture in a textbook cannot. On 30 April 2024, learners from Leonard Chileshe Mulenga Memorial School visited Lusaka National Park for a day of wildlife encounters, outdoor discovery and learning beyond the classroom.
The elephants were a memorable part of the visit. Watching them together gave learners an opportunity to slow down, look carefully and appreciate animals they may usually encounter through books or pictures. The photographs capture elephants around the water, children looking out from a viewing area and learners exploring wildlife displays. There was time to enjoy being outdoors and share a meal together too.
A school outing can turn a lesson into something a child remembers. Seeing wildlife invites questions about how animals live, what they need and why their surroundings matter. Looking closely at a display creates another opportunity to notice details and connect new information with earlier learning. These experiences give children something real to draw on when they return to the classroom.
Curiosity beyond the classroom
At Leonard Chileshe Mulenga Memorial School, we value opportunities that help learners use their knowledge in different settings. Outdoor visits can support the curiosity, observation and listening skills that matter across subjects. Our primary school programme combines a commitment to academic learning with opportunities for children to develop confidence, practical understanding and an interest in the world around them.
A visit such as this is also an opportunity to begin meaningful conversations about conservation. Appreciating wildlife is a starting point. Children can learn that caring for nature includes respecting animals, keeping surroundings clean and following the guidance given during a visit. Encouraging these habits helps learners understand that they have a part to play in looking after Zambia’s natural heritage.
Learning to care for our natural heritage
The school’s commitment to helping learners achieve their best results extends to the way we encourage them to learn. Careful observation, asking questions and connecting ideas are useful habits in academic work. Experiences beyond the classroom can reinforce those habits and give learners fresh reasons to engage with their lessons. Read more about Leonard Chileshe Mulenga Memorial School and our approach to education.
Thank you to the staff who accompanied our learners and helped make the outing possible. To our young explorers, keep noticing, keep asking and keep caring about the living world. We hope this visit remains a happy memory and a reason to take a lasting interest in nature.
Families interested in joining Leonard Chileshe Mulenga Memorial School can explore our admission process or contact the school to discuss their child’s education and arrange a visit.
Learning goes further when curiosity comes along. Be Different.
Moments from the day
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