Animal Activity License: 9751
Telephone: 02380 394174
Student Research
Research, investigation and independent learning are an important part of education at The Reptile Academy.
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As a specialist reptile and amphibian education centre with a strong focus on SEND education, animal welfare and evidence-based husbandry, we support student-led research across a wide range of ages, abilities and academic levels.
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Projects range from investigations undertaken by learners accessing Alternative Provision and AQA Unit Award Scheme programmes, through ASDAN Short Courses and Qualifications, to undergraduate placements, final-year research projects, Master's dissertations and postgraduate research.
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Our specialist animal centre provides students with opportunities to develop practical research skills and investigate real-world questions relating to reptiles, amphibians, animal behaviour, husbandry, welfare, education and related biological sciences. Wherever appropriate, projects are designed to encourage students to take ownership of their research — developing questions, collecting and analysing information or data, and communicating their findings.
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University Research & Placements
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For formal university research projects, including undergraduate dissertations, Master's projects and PhD research, The Reptile Academy can provide experiential and workplace support through our specialist reptile and amphibian centre, subject to the nature and requirements of the proposed project.
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We may also be able to provide industry-based supervision, access to relevant facilities and expertise, and opportunities for observational or non-invasive data collection, where projects are compatible with our animal welfare, safeguarding and operational requirements.
We particularly welcome research that has the potential to contribute positively to reptile and amphibian welfare, husbandry, behaviour, conservation, education or public understanding.
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Enquiries regarding university research projects, placements or potential collaborations should be directed to education@reptileacademy.co.uk.
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Explore the projects below to discover the research being undertaken by students at The Reptile Academy.
Researched as part of the ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) Level 2 Qualification (GCSE-equivalent), student WM investigated how the keeping of reptiles and amphibians as pets may impact the environment compared to traditional companion animals like dogs and cats. The results may sssssurprissssse you!
This less commonly kept skink species, native to Kenya, is challenging to keep in captivity due to their specific behaviours and needs. This research project, undertaken by student AB as part of their ASDAN CoPE Level 2 Research project, uses a literature review, animal observation and interview to collect primary and secondary data. The results suggest challenging accepted paradigms in reptile keeping to keep this animal best!
Researched as part of the ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) Level 1 Qualification (GCSE-equivalent), student LK investigated the impact of Invasive Burmese pythons in Florida and has presented this has a written research report and accompanying presentation.
Researched as part of the ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) Level 2 Qualification (GCSE-equivalent), student OW built a garden pond and recorded the species diversity over the summer holidays. He has presented is research in PowerPoint format.
Researched as part of the ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) Level 2 Qualification (GCSE-equivalent), student TW investigated how more or less likely keepers are likely to surrender an animal when it bites them, depending on what type of pet it is. By TW 2026.
Researched as part of the ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) Level 2 Qualification (GCSE-equivalent), student DS investigated whether zoo or non-zoo animal facilities have higher biodiversity scores for reptiles and amphibians. The results may surprissssse you!
DS has submitted a written report with accompanying data.
Researched as part of the ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) Level 2 Qualification (GCSE-equivalent), student CH researched the perception of how likely reptiles and amphibians were to be rehomed based on the difficulty of their habitat needs.
Researched as part of the ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) Level 2 Qualification (GCSE-equivalent), student JG investigated heat and light bulb preferences for 10 species of snake and lizard.