A GROUP of students from a Carlisle school got to experience a very special flying visit last week.

Year 10 students from Morton Academy were visited by the Silverband Falconry.

The visit from the Cumbria-based falconry was arranged as part of their work towards their BTEC in Animal Care, which requires them to learn about a variety of different animal species.

This includes birds of prey.

The Silverband Falconry are well known for their spectacular school visits.

Its owner and director, the experienced falconer Richard Cooper, gained his passion for birds from one of his own teachers at primary school.

This is why he remains committed to giving local students of all ages a chance to experience live demonstrations.

For the day’s activities, Richard brought with him a wide variety of birds of prey, including owls, buzzards, and falcons.

The Morton Academy students got the chance to handle the birds as well as fly them whilst learning different behaviour traits, welfare needs and handling techniques.

The school will be joined by the Silverband Falconry again for another session on mammals and minibeasts later in the academic year.

This will provide a valuable insight into animal welfare across an even broader range of species.

Richard Cooper, Owner and Director of the Silverband Falconry, said: "It's great to get back into schools and inspire the next generation of Conservationists, Zookeepers and Animal handlers. School visits and education have always been at the heart of Silverband Falconry and the World Owl Trust."

Richard McGuire, Executive Principal at Morton Academy, said: “Enhancing our students’ education through practical experiences like this spectacular one from the Silverband Falconry is part of our commitment to delivering an Education with Character.

"This means providing students with opportunities to learn new skills, explore different interests and develop their confidence and creativity as young people.

"As a Headteacher, it was brilliant to see our students so inspired following Richard’s visit and I know they will look forward to reflecting everything they have learned here as part of their wider BTEC courses.”