We pulled out of the school grounds with the low cloud decidedly ominous, but fortunately were greeted at Spier with reasonably clear skies!

What a fascinating experience it was to experience cheetah at such close proximity. Most of us would have loved to enter their enclosure to romp with them on the lawn, as the two young cubs appeared so playful and harmless.

After being escorted around the facility by our expert guide, we were informally lectured on the habits and habitat of the cheetah and the reasons for the existence of this facility. They do an amazing work hand-rearing cheetah.

We watched a couple of informative DVDs: one on their dog-breeding programme, and a second on the cheetah taking a kill.

After a bite to eat, we headed back to school, only to have the heavens open as we approached the gates. We were really blessed to have the weather play ball!

Barbara Hansen, Year 4 teacher