THOUSANDS of free tickets to Chester Zoo are being offered to schools for educational trips next winter.

Over 35,000 children will be able to visit the zoo for free as part of an organised educational visit between November 2023 and February 2024.

Schools in the area are now being urged to apply for their chance to snap up some of the tickets in the scheme, which has run since 2017.

This year’s free ticket offer is open for nurseries, schools and colleges which have not received free tickets for Chester Zoo within the last two years.

Places are available for pupils from nursery age to Year 13, for weekday visits between November 1, 2023 to February 29, 2024, during the Cheshire West and Chester region term time. Home educators are eligible to apply as a group through a Home Educators’ Network.

Charlotte Smith, Director of Conservation Education and Engagement at Chester Zoo, said: "It’s more important now than ever that all students have opportunities to get outside, spend time in nature and learn about the amazing biodiversity of our planet, all things that can be supported through a zoo visit.

"With so many species threatened with extinction, it’s vital now more than ever that we all play our part in creating a more sustainable future for people and wildlife. Spending time observing and learning about animals in the amazing setting of our zoological gardens supported by our educational experts can help foster a connection to nature and give young people some of the tools to make a difference.

“A visit to the zoo is also beneficial for young people themselves. Children and young people have experienced so much disruption during the last few years.

"It’s more important now than ever that all students have opportunities to get outside, spend time in nature and learn about the amazing biodiversity of our planet, all things that can be supported through a zoo visit. So, we’re delighted to be able to offer our free tickets for schools scheme again this year and enable even more young people to access the enriching educational experience of a trip to the zoo.”