THIS set of students took a break from the classroom to get up close and personal with a pride of lions.

The animal management students from St Helens College travelled to Knowsley Safari Park for an experiment that saw papier mache animals placed in dens.

As part of their animal behaviour studies, they daubed the model warthog, zebra and giraffes in a range of smells including catnip, lemon and lime juice and deodorant spray and placed them in several locations in the lion enclosure.

Guided by the park's keepers, they were able to observe the lions' behaviour and how they reacted to the model animals and the range of scents.

Students also toured the park learning about other animals such as the white rhino, Ankole cattle and the Blesbok antelope.

Tutor Adam Howson said: "This was a fantastic experience for the students to be able to put what they are learning about in the classroom into practice and to be able to see the lions interact with enrichment items that they have spent time creating.

"We have worked closely with Knowlsey Safari on a number of visits this year which has benefitted the students greatly."

Ellie Sowerby from Knowlsey Safari Park said: "This is one example of how we can utilise observation time to allow students and pupils opportunities to study behaviours

"We are always keen to monitor interactions with different stimuli for the animals and the enrichment items made by the students were perfect for showing off a wide range of reactions from the lions.

"It's fascinating to learn about animal behaviour in the classroom but this kind of experience makes learning last and the students take away an appreciation of these animals and a better understanding of why they are so important."

For more information about courses at St Helens College go to sthelens.ac.uk, phone 0800 996699 or email enquire@sthelens.ac.uk.