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

Discover the rainforest's wonders as you stroll between tropical trees and plants, among free roaming butterflies and birds. An outdoor play area allows kids to let off steam, while adults can relax on the sun terrace with a cappuccino. All weather attraction with on site parking, cafe and shop.

The Greenway is a high quality surfaced path suitable for cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users which runs from Stratford-upon-Avon to Long Marston. It is part of the National Cycle Network, forming a five mile section of the West Midlands Cycle Route, which links Oxford to Derby via Birmingham. It follows the course of the old Honeybourne railway line.

Cole End Park is one of four of North Warwickshire's green spaces dedicated as Local Nature Reserves.

Cole End Park LNR is situated within the larger Cole End Park, to the south of the River which runs through the park.

Get back to nature at this reserve, with over 1000 species recorded, there is always something to see. Free to visit.

College Lake Nature Reserve is thought of as one of the best places in Buckinghamshire to see water birds such as lapwings and redshanks.

There are a number of hides that overlook the lake and give you a great place to birdwatch.

A superb Cotswold landscape of mixed woodland and open grassland with extensive views

Occupying a prominent position on three spurs on the Cotswold escarpment, there are views across the Severn estuary towards the Forest of Dean and Brecon Beacons. With its dramatic topography, intimate woodlands, extensive grasslands and exposed and wild promontory hill fort the estate offers a variety of contrasting experiences.

A registered common, the last fragment of a much larger area of open land that existed some hundreds of years ago.

Situated in the village of Hunningham, about three miles east of Leamington Spa, this site is agriculturally improved grassland with small areas of relatively species poor semi-improved grassland. It has been used in recent years for year-round horse grazing.

 

Lobbington Meadow is an unimproved species-rich hay meadow which faces north east on the banks of the River Dene and exhibits ridge and furrow topography. The meadow overlies Lias clays and shales which have given rise to a calcareous soil.

One of 13 flagship nature reserves in the area with a beautiful trail that starts in an apple orchard, and passes a brook and a meadow. Lots of wildlife to enjoy, including woodpeckers, nuthatches, and otters.

It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, plus it is open and all year and free to visit!

Get the wildlife 'wow' on the Essex Coast

Under leaden skies with a face full of wind there's nowhere like Copt Hall for refreshing the mind and blowing away the cobwebs.

This extensive park, over 120 hectares (300 acres), was laid out in the 1970’s. Formerly Newbold Comyn Farm, it was acquired by Leamington Corporation in 1943. The northern half is an 18-hole pay-and-play golf course; the southern half provides for recreation, sport and wildlife.

Rocky islands, habitat for seals and many species of seabird

The Farne Islands are possibly the most exciting seabird colony in England with unrivalled views of 23 species, including around 37,000 pairs of puffin.

It's also home to a large grey seal colony, with more than 1,000 pups born every autumn.

Historically, the islands have strong links with Celtic Christianity and St Cuthbert, who lived here in the 7th Century.

At the Linn of Tummel you can enjoy a beautiful circular woodland walk alongside the contrasting rivers of the slow flowing gentle Garry and the fast-flowing Tummel, rushing over rapids.

Polkemmet Country Park is a beautiful 68-hectare park in the heart of Scotland's Lothian region. The Park offers beautiful woodland and riverside walks, play area and picnic areas with seating.

You can walk, cycle, play in our 'miner's play area', go horse riding or orienteering, play golf and end the day by hiring a BBQ to cook a tasty meal.

Ancient common once owned by King Harold and William the Conqueror

Holmwood Common is at the heart of the local community and is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by all. It’s just off the A24 (south of Dorking), so why not break a car journey south to the coast with a stop? Stretch your legs and explore...

A little wilderness of woodlands and heath in the heart of the Midlands

Downs Banks Brook is a beautiful babbling stream that runs the length of Downs Banks. Keep your eyes open and you may see the fantastic blue flash of a kingfisher.

Corrieshalloch may mean ‘Ugly Hollow’ in Gaelic, but there is nothing ugly about Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve, a deep tree-shrouded chasm and beauty spot that cuts through a Highland wilderness rich in flora and fauna. Corrieshalloch is a slot gorge, or box-canyon, that was cut as far back as 2.6million years ago by Ice Age glacial meltwater.

Pembrokeshire's very edge from here on it's sea and islands.

The Marloes Peninsula combines dramatic coastal scenery and safe bathing on golden sands. You can look out for seabirds and seals and the remains of ancient peoples.

A picturesque walk from wooded glen to hilltop rath

Lisnabreeny takes in wooded glen, estate and green field to the summit of the Castlereagh hills on the edge of east Belfast.

The path hugs the sides of Cregagh glen as it climbs through pools of sunlight cast by the trees. You’ll hear the waterfall, but also keep an eye out for the carpets of bluebell and wood anemone in spring.

The estate is split into four main elements:

Threave House, a restored Scottish baronial-style house;

Threave Garden, made up of landscaped gardens and themed 'rooms';

Threave Sculpture Garden, containing over 30 works by Scottish sculptors; and

Threave Nature Reserve, featuring landscape ranging from wetlands to woodlands.

For fantastic family fun and excitement, enjoy a day at one of the UK's biggest bird gardens, discover a beautiful natural setting of woodland, river and water gardens that are inhabited by over 500 birds, flamingos, pelicans, colourful parrots to laughing kookaburras and magical owls.

A vast sandy beach, high cliffs and dramatic coves

Godrevy's awe-inspiring expanse of sandy beach leads on to wildlife rich headlands and the dramatic coves of the North Cliffs and Western Hill.

Set at the far end of St Ives Bay, Godrevy beach is popular for surfers, families, walkers, nature watchers and those who simply want to sit and admire the view.

Cotswold countryside within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

This beautiful Cotswold countryside, which we manage jointly with Gloucestershire County Council, boasts a wide variety of habitats and plants. The limestone grassland is extremely rich in plants, which in turn support a large variety of insects, especially butterflies.

A visit here offers a unique nature experience. Walk through two acres of sand dunes only fifty metres from the sea and gain first hand experience of some of the county's most stunning wildlife.

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