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

Panoramic views from the top of world

Ditchling Beacon is located 7 miles to the north of Brighton and just south of the village of Ditchling. At 248 metres above sea-level, Ditchling Beacon is the highest point in East Sussex and offers commanding 360 degree views from its summit. Look south out to sea, north across the Weald or east-west across the Downs.

Raleigh Park is 27 sloping acres, outside the city boundaries between Botley and North Hinksey. It has recently been accredited with Local Wildlife Site.

Wild and open landmark crowned with a distinctive row of pine trees

The summit and surrounding area of May Hill consists of a wide expanse of open grassland, bracken and gorse with boggy areas and pools. The hill is capped by a clump of pine trees (not NT), planted in 1887 to commemorate the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria. It is now the location of annual May Day celebrations.

A beautiful slice of Kent countryside

Discover why the locals love this place so much by exploring this tranquil site along its network of paths, which wind their way up through the woodland. Once at the top, relax and take in the wonderful view to the south over the Weald of Kent.

A park at the heart of the community

Morden Hall Park is green oasis in the city, giving you a taste of a country estate with a glimpse of its agricultural and industrial history.

Huge park offering lakes, meadows and rivers for exploration, plus a multi activity centre and adventure playground. Incorporates a proper 9 hole golf course please note not crazy or mini golf though beginners welcome.

A remote island in the Norfolk Broads

You may not have heard of Heigham Holmes, but this 500 acre nature reserve is an oasis of calm and a haven for wildlife – and heaven for wildlife lovers.

It’s a unique and internationally important site, with reed-fringed flood banks, open water, grazing marsh, scrub and wet woodland. They're linked by a maze of dykes and pools characteristic of the Norfolk broadland landscape.

A natural amphitheatre on a spur of the Cotswolds, with views over the Vale of Evesham

Dover's Hill was the site of the original English Olympic Games, which began here 400 years ago in 1612.

Varied landscape of moorland, woods, farms and coast, rich in wildlife

Holnicote Estate makes up 12,000 acres of Exmoor National Park and is a contrasting landscape with everything from wild, rugged moorland and shingle beaches to ancient woodland and charming thatched villages.

A Land Apart...

A precious landscape whose distinctive character and natural beauty is so outstanding that it is protected for future generations...

Extensive chalk and grassland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Soar above a breathtaking landscape, sculpted over time, decorated by nature and enjoyed by generations.

Stand on top of Dunstable Downs for a view that will simply take your breath away. These Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) are designated for the quality of their chalk grasslands.

A wonderful mix of open heathland, woodland and chalk downland

Headley Heath has a wide network of tracks to explore, and stunning views to rival any of its neighbours - the perfect place to enjoy the countryside, whether walking, cycling or horseriding.

White Peak Estate, including Ilam Park, Dovedale and Hamps and Manifold Valleys

Situated in the spectacular setting of the Staffordshire and Derbyshire Peak District, Ilam Park makes an ideal base to explore the other parts of the White Peak area.

White Peak incorporates several key areas that are well worth a visit. These include: Dovedale; the Manifold Valley; Ilam Park; Ecton Mine, Stanton Moor Edge; Miller's Dale and Ravenstor; and High Wheeldon.

500 acres of beautiful woodlands, grasslands, gardens and lake.

We have a children's play area, climbing forest, picnic benches and barbecue areas, a bird hide, woodlands, open space for the children to play and of course plenty of ducks and swans to feed!

It is the perfect location for a fun filled family day out or a relaxing picnic out in the fresh air.

The park opened in 1934 after the land was presented to the City by Councillor F.E. Moss in memory of his sister Florence.

What facilities does it have?

Beecraigs Country Park is a great place to visit. It caters for a wide range of leisure and recreational activities within its 370 hectares (913 acres) and can be discovered nestled high in the Bathgate Hills near the historic town of Linlithgow. The Park is open throughout the year and admission is free.

This 100 acre site, managed in partnership with 

Welcome to Clan Donald Skye, a magnificent 20,000 acre estate in south Skye. Enjoy an outstanding holiday experience, exploring the historic gardens and woodland trails around Armadale Castle, learning about highland history in our fascinating Museum of the Isles or staying in our self-catering lodges.

So much to explore

Box Hill is the perfect place to discover a family walk and explore the beautiful Surrey Hills. Forming part of the North Downs, Box Hill has breathtaking views across the surrounding countryside. It's home to some fantastic wildlife and plants too, including the Adonis blue butterfly and bee orchid.

Two acres of magnificent garden, set on the side of Kinnoull Hill overlooking Perth. Branklyn holds an impressive collection of rare and unusual plants. Schools are welcome to arrange a visit with the site manager.

Lakeshore park with stunning mountain views

Situated at the very southern tip of Lake Windermere, Fell Foot is a great, family friendly location to play, explore and relax. Sweeping lawns offer plenty of space for games, picnics and gentle walks, while easy lake access makes the park perfect for paddling, swimming and boating.

Take a break from the coast in these quiet, wooded backwaters

The sheltered waterway of the Cleddau runs from the county town of Haverfordwest down to Milford Haven. Along the way it passes Little Milford Wood, the ancient oak woodland of Lawrenny and tidal mudflats at West Williamston.

Discover dramatic cliffs and the tranquil Yealm Estuary

Explore the quaint village of Noss Mayo situated at the mouth of the river Yealm.

Lichen-clad, ancient oak woodland valleys following the River Dart

Hembury and Holne contain two discreet woods on the south-eastern edge of Dartmoor National Park.

Perched at the top of Hembury Woods with far reaching views over Dartmoor, the iron-age Hembury Hill Fort gives you a real sense of what it would have been like to live in a protected palisade.

Divis and the Black Mountain offer spectacular views across Northern Ireland

The mountains rest in the heart of the Belfast Hills, which provide the backdrop to the city's skyline. The rich, varied archaeological landscape is home to a host of wildlife. There are walking trails along a variety of terrain: through heath, on stone tracks, along boardwalks and road surface.

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