When it comes to school pets, students at Mayflower High School in Billericay have something truly unique. While other schools may rely on therapy dogs or hatching chicks as part of learning, these students have taken ownership of two axolotls.
A Unique Addition to the Classroom
The amphibians, which feature feathery external gills, have been named Marshmallow and Shadow by the students. The creatures are cared for by the students themselves, who feed them live worms and refresh their water regularly.
Bringing Science to Life
The axolotls are helping students grasp complex scientific concepts. Lessons on gas exchange in fish, adaptations of organisms to their environments, and how these adaptations support survival become tangible when observing the axolotls. Students also learn about maximizing surface area for efficient diffusion and ecosystem processes like the nitrogen cycle.
Kim Poole, deputy head of science, commented: "From adaptations and physiology to ecosystem processes, Marshmallow and Shadow demonstrate how a simple classroom aquarium can support rich scientific discussion across the curriculum. They remind us that, sometimes, the most effective prompts for learning are right in front of us."
Poole added: "The axolotls are very popular; students are fascinated, and they have become a regular part of lessons. They prompt many discussions and help bring scientific concepts to life."
Written by Kelly Clark
