Over the summer, twenty Oundle School pupils were led by three members of the Biology teaching staff on a Biology Expedition to Madagascar.
Trip leader and Biology teacher, Sudip Burman-Roy commented, “Fabulous flora and fauna were observed in their natural habitat as well as lemurs, vangas, chameleons, geckos, hognose snakes – many of these endemic species could only be seen in that area of forest and potentially had not ever been seen by any Biologist before. Some invertebrate specimens caught by 
our pupils were being catalogued for the Natural History Museum to officially classify.”
The first week in the forest for the group also involved long sampling treks – one app recorded over 30km walked in a single day fuelled on lentils and rice every day for lunch. The pupils visited Mariarano Primary School nearby spending time with children.
The second week at the marine site was for reef ecology and conservation and allowed some opportunity for relaxation fitted around diving and snorkelling. A National Park marine reserve on an idyllic tropical island provided opportunities for sunbathing as well as the chance to snorkel and observe turtles, triggerfish, sting rays, huge lobsters and a shark was even spotted!
Lower Sixth former, Ruth Palethorpe (16) commented, “The trip to Madagascar exceeded my expectations. The knowledge of the scientists that we got to work with was inspirational. I learnt so much about conservation while making new friends and enjoying the wildlife.
The diving week was both challenging and rewarding. I would definitely recommend the trip to anyone with an interest in Biology.”