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.
A 280 acre paradise of sea cliffs, coastal limestone downland, meadows, hedgerows and woods.
Durlston Country Park, National Nature Reserve and Castle is a mile from Swanage in Dorset. This countryside paradise has stupendous views, the Great Globe (a huge recreation of planet Earth), a variety of walks and fascinating geology - there's always something new to see and do.
Originally home to the Lindisfarne Gospels and the site of grisly Viking attacks, a visit to Lindisfarne Priory is a great day out in Northumberland. Sitting offshore on Holy Island and reached by a causeway at low tide, the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views from the priory make a visit here well worth the effort.
One of only four Palladian bridges of this design in the world can be crossed at Prior Park, which was created in the 18th century by local entrepreneur Ralph Allen, with advice from 'Capability' Brown and the poet Alexander Pope.
Trace the history of drinking water, from the time of cave dwellers to present day, through a number of great displays and wonderful working engines. A number of Open Days in Steam throughout the year.
Based in a Victorian pumping station that served Hereford for 120 years, the museum tells the story of drinking water throughout the ages through a number of high quality displays.
Washington Wetland Centre, set on the banks of the River Wear, is a perfect destination for every type of group. In particular, we welcome school groups of all sizes, all year round.
Get close to rare and exotic birds, mammals and different wetland habitats. Walk with a warden, bug hunt or tour the duckery. You’ll also see colourful flamingos and the rarest goose in the world!
Our 450 acre mosaic of pools, lagoons, reed beds, marshes and meadows provides a wildlife haven.
Hand feed the rarest goose in the world, see our colourful flamingos, go bug hunting or pond dipping, enjoy bird watching from our hides and explore the reserve to see butterflies, dragonflies and more!
Old Rectory Farm has been fully restored and operates as a demonstration farm, showing city dwellers traditional methods of farming. animals kept at the farm include Jersey cattle, pigs, goats, ponies, ducks, chickens and geese.
Sheldon Country Park covers an area of just over 300 acres, comprising open grassland, wetlands, old hedgerows and some mature woodland.
One of the UK's largest urban Nature Reserves at a whopping 247 acres including a wide range of habitats great for exploring and nature spotting: woodlands, grasslands, heath land and wetlands plus way marked Nature and Sculpture Trails if you’re nervous about getting lost… given the size of the place a reasonable concern!
Brockholes Nature Reserve offers a unique outdoor learning opportunity. Once an active quarry site, Brockholes has been transformed into a nature reserve with a variety of habitats including wetlands, woodlands and meadows.
The Park contains wetlands, grasslands, woodland and heath supporting a wealth of animal and plant life on the doorsteps of Yardley Wood, Billesley, Springfield, Sparkhill and Small Heath.
Mere Sands Wood is a beautiful wildlife haven comprised of woodlands, lakes and meadows. There is an indoor activity room available for school visits, as well as fully accessible pathways throughout the woodlands and an accessible pond dipping platform making it an ideal location to study mini beasts, pond life and carry out wildlife surveys.
An urban oasis for wildlife and people, just 10 minutes from Hammersmith. Stroll among the lakes, ponds and gardens. The café is perfect for relaxing, and kids will love the play areas.
Book a guided learning session
Step into a wilder world where wilderness and family-friendliness combine. Come and enjoy each season, from ducklings to migrating swans - you’ll be amazed at how close you can get to fantastic wetland wildlife.
Book a guided learning session
Get up close to Ireland's largest collection of native and exotic waterbirds, bats and migrant birds whilst taking in stunning estuary views. Our spring duckery tour is an unforgettable experience.
A medieval Elizabethan manor house, with it’s own moat, plus priest holes and walled gardens to explore. There is also a Visitor Centre in the old Malt House. Audiovisual and interactive displays help bring the history to life.
Sweeping along the edge of the North Coast, this two-mile stretch of golden sand is one of Northern Ireland's finest beaches and affords views of Inishowen headland and Mussenden Temple perched atop the cliffs. It is an ideal place for lazy picnics, quad-pod rides, surfing, slacklining and long walks into the sand dunes where wild pansy flowers dance in the breeze and common blue and dark gree
This exciting new interpretation centre showcases the special qualities which make the Llŷn Peninsula so unique in terms of history, culture and environment.
Come in and explore, learn, reflect and enjoy the natural environment, and get ideas for activities, walks, attractions and things to do on the peninsula.
This spectacular stretch of coastline offers fine views and hidden delights. Heading north from Polzeath discover Pentire Point and The Rumps, views of which inspired First World War poet Lawrence Binyon.
The fishing villages of Polperro and Looe are ideal starting points to explore this part of South East Cornwall. With a range of walks for all abilities there are some great opportunities for everyone to take in this unspoilt coast along the South West Coast Path.
'This is a delicious house...' remarked Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother on her honeymoon at Polesden Lacey. This country retreat, only four miles from Dorking and junction 9 of the M25, has glorious views across the rolling Surrey Hills and acres of countryside. It was home to famous Edwardian hostess Mrs Greville, who entertained royalty and the celebrities of her time.
Bedfords Park is a fantastic place to come and explore with your school. We have a plethora of habitats and wildlife to learn from: from meadows to lakes, woodlands to ponds - and not forgetting our resident herd of Red Deer.
EYFS:
Exploring Senses, Pond Power, Go on a Bug Hunt, Teddy Bears Picnic, Natural Art
Key Stage 1:
Now the UK’s largest collection of parrots with nearly 2,000 birds covering over 100 species, but there’s not just parrots here, you will also see Marmosets, Meerkats, Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Snakes, Kookaburras and many more.
Centres around a Tropical House in a spectacular jungle-like setting which includes a large water feature containing Red-Eared and other Terrapins. The outside exhibits include capuchin monkeys, meerkats, ring tailed lemur and more plus plenty of bird exhibits.
Noah's Ark Zoo Farm is home to rhinos, giraffe, leopards, tigers, elephants and lions - all the biggest zoo animals!
We also have 12 huge indoor and outdoor play areas.
You can get hands on with the farm animals and learn more about the wildlife from our zookeepers at one of the Zookeeper Talks.
School Visits
The Bushcraft Company offer residential school trips with a difference, taking students into the wild and giving them real back-to-nature experiences they will never forget.
A 15-year-old boy fell 60ft over the edge of a cliff whilst on a geography school trip, miraculously only suffering minor injuries.