Flying with Monty

Part of the Alternative Provision on offer at Trinity Academy includes sessions at Riverside Falconry, where learners are able to interact with peers and learn about birds of prey whilst building relationships and caring for animals. After months of work and building up trust between learners and bird of prey, Monty, learners were able to test their hard work and help Monty (picture) complete an exciting stunt.
Monty is a Eurasian eagle owl. This is one of the largest species of owl with females that can grow to a total length of 75cm (30in), with a wingspan of 188cm (6ft 2in), with males being slightly smaller. Our learners needed to be brave in order to stand and face Monty flying towards them in full flight but their trust, bravery and comradery proved to be worth it. Monty flew skilfully between the learners with wings outstretched as it came to collect his prey from the perch. It was a fantastic session and there was much to be celebrated; our learners have worked so hard to get to this stage and have persevered and supported each other in the process. Well done to all involved!