Environment

Environment

What is it? 

The word "environment" covers all naturally occurring things on Earth. Animals, chemicals, plants and minerals all count as part of the environment, which has incredible variety depending on the climate of the area in which it is found. 

What does it involve?

The environment of earth includes a huge variety of genres, but in general use the word refers to the features of the landscape and the animals and plants most likely to be found in certain areas. Learning about the environment involves disciplines such as science, history and evolution, and as the environment is constantly changing, as does the study of it. 

Why do it and what are the benefits?

Learning about the environment should be something all students take part in at some point, as respect for the planet and its natural resources are essential in maintaining it. The subject of the environment can cover many sub-topics, and it's a great way of understanding more about how things were in the past and how they developed into our current day situation; it's also a thought provoking subject in regards to the future of the planet. 

What equipment do we need?

Simple observation and appreciation of the environment requires very little if no equipment whatsoever, but further study can involve more scientific methods of research where certain things may be needed. For beginners into environmental research, some information, a willingness to learn and curiosity are all that should be needed. 

Who is it suitable for?

The environment is important for all ages to learn about and respect. Students both young and old will benefit from understanding what goes on around us a little more - for example, explaining why littering is bad to young children can go a long way!

Costs?

Depending on what sort of thing you do and where you go, costs of environmental studies can range anywhere from completely free upwards! Many natural parks will charge an entry cost for upkeep, for example, but the actual examination of the environment costs nothing. 

Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)

You should ensure that the activity can engage the students appropriately! Younger students will need more to occupy them than older students will, and you should always have appropriate supervision for groups of children when taking them outside into unfamiliar territory. 

How do we include?

Full inclusion will depend on the type of the activity. For example, venturing outside into rough terrain will hinder those with physical disabilities; make sure that whatever you plan is appropriate for everyone in your student group.

Doing it abroad?

The environment abroad will be great to study for those who are interested in the topic. You can see animals, landscapes and plants that you never would in the UK, and could be an invaluable experience for many. 

Main website:

Consult individual venue websites to see more information about their environment and any acitivies they provide. 

Venues with this Activity

Caldecott Hall is a 400 acre country estate enjoying the scenic views stretching from an historic Viking burial ground to the Waveney Forest.

NWT Ranworth Broad is a fantastic place to bring your children, suiting smaller groups especially well. Situated only 20 minutes outside Norwich, Ranworth contains a wide range of habitats and a fantastic variety of wildlife, all to be seen from 750m of boardwalk. Find our floating visitor centre, nestled in reeds, with amazing views out across the open water at the end.

Explore NWT Holme Dunes (5 miles from Hunstanton) with your group. There are a range of coastal habitats including sand dunes, freshwater pools, grazing marsh and saltmarsh and much of the site consists of natural habitats maintained largely by coastal processes.

Wild, open Goatfell, at 874m (2,866ft), is the highest peak on Arran. Walkers and mountaineers who venture into this dramatic and challenging upland landscape are rewarded with spectacular views of the island and, on a clear day, across to Ben Lomond, Jura and the coast of Ireland.

Whatever the season there's always something new to see....

Let your imagination run riot among the unusual plants, colours, sculptures and magical features in one of the most beautiful gardens in Northern Ireland.

A long distance path giving a circular tour around the county. Along the way are pretty rural churches, castle ruins and other historic features to discover and explore.

Grab your wellies, for an unforgettable learning experience outdoors designed to support your teaching and learning in school.

Slimbridge Wetland Centre is an unforgettable day out for groups – it’s the wetland that inspired Sir Peter Scott to found WWT in 1946. When your group visits, you will see why.

Since the decline of the gardens from the 1940s onward; various restoration phases have been undertaken, including the many heritage structures.

Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of attractions:

At the top of the park stand the imposing remains of Lowther Castle and its hidden Gardens.

Bantock Park is one of Wolverhampton's district parks and has a rich history. Bequeathed to its present day custodians in 1938 on the death of Alderman Albert Bantock, this former farm has undergone restoration works, partly funded by the Herotage Lottery Fund.

Built by William the Conqueror, Rockingham was a royal fortress for 450 years. Home to the Saunders Watson family. Set in a panoramic location with views over five counties, the Castle has magnificently furnished rooms of several periods, and is surrounded by 18 acres of superbly contrasting gardens including a beautiful Room Garden created by Chelsea Gold Medal Winner Robert Myers.

Beautiful sandstone headland renowned for its eighth-century chapel and rock hewn graves; a wonderful urban green space

This sandstone headland, south of Morecambe and north of Heysham port, rises majestically above the sea. See the remains of St Patrick's Chapel, built in the early Medieval period and now a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The eight body-shaped, rock-cut graves here are believed to be unique.

The Centre, opened in 1999, forms the focus for activities based on the 8th Century earthwork built by Offa, the King of Mercia. The dyke follows the Welsh English border from the hills above Prestatyn to the Severn Estuary near Chepstow.

Combine an educational day out with a fun-filled trip to Gulliver’s World Theme Park!

Who says learning can’t be fun? We have put together some brilliant education packs that will show you how to create a fantastic educational experience at Gulliver's.

Take the lesson out of the classroom and onto the theme park. We have topics and ideas that will really engage your group.

Over 40 different activities from Tree Trekking to Tarzan swings.

Schools, Groups and Corporate Bookings

In the heart of Rob Hood country, take a walk to the mighty Major Oak, pick up a fun family nature trail, try the playground or just stand and admire the weird and wonderful shapes of the ancient oak trees, twisted by age and weathered into living sculptures.

Highlights include Grotto Hill, where you can explore a pitch-dark labyrinth of ancient mines cut into the cliff; the Swiss Bridge, a rustic wooden structure perched over an unnervingly deep chasm; the Cleft, a path winding between two cliffs which narrows into a dark, creepy tunnel; and the Monument, a 100ft high column which can be climbed to enjoy panoramic views of up to 13 counties!

A land of thrilling rides and the terrific Splashland, amazing attractions and exhilarating activities are waiting to be discovered. From the Runaway Mine Train roller coaster and challenging Mini Diggers, to the indoor soft play Pirate Ship and Tropical House the fun is endless!

Loads to do including milking, lamb feeding, pony grooming, and cart rides. Huge indoor play arena with toy tractor circuit and bouncy castles. Vintage Garage and Welsh Guards Museum. Exciting extras: Junior Driving School and quad bikes. Great Tearooms and picnic areas.

The Ecos Millennium Environmental Centre is a unique project in Ireland that opened on 7th August 2000. Ecos is set in a 150-acre Country Park, which has been created from previously disused land that is the River Braid flood plain.

Carsington Water is a popular visitor attraction located a short distance from the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire.

Monikie Country Park, with its reservoirs, woodland and parkland, is an ideal location for a school visit to the countryside. The scenic surroundings offer many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors at any time of the year.

Situated in heart of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bewerley Park Centre is ideally located. We have been providing high quality outdoor learning, using real outdoor activities in the natural environment, for over 70 years.

A family operated children's fair located in Sherwood Country Park with plenty for the small and mid range kids to play on from the caterpillar roller coaster and the ghost train to the classic tea cup ride and big slide.

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