The colony lives within a specially designed habitat connected by around 75 metres of transparent tubing, which winds its way through corridors at both schools. Pupils and staff can watch thousands of ants working tirelessly, carrying small pieces of leaves back to their nest to grow the fungus that sustains their colony.

Despite their size, they can carry up to 50 times their own bodyweight, and their daily journeys through the tubing are the human equivalent of walking 20 miles a day.

Having the colony on site gives pupils a unique opportunity to witness teamwork, perseverance, and problem-solving in action. The ants’ industrious nature has sparked curiosity, excitement, and awe across the schools, offering a living example of how cooperation and hard work sustain a thriving community.