Buckfast Abbey
Buckfast Abbey
The monks are pleased to welcome school groups to their Abbey.
We have a long established Education Department (over 25 years!) with full-time education staff. This means that we can provide facilities and resources for all ages and ability levels covering a wide range of subject areas.
Our aim is to make a visit an active learning experience, encouraging pupils to understand by asking questions and solving problems.
We hope to provide experiences and memories that will last beyond the length of their visit.
We want to make teachers happy too! So we will do everything we can to make sure that your visit runs smoothly.
Our most popular resource. A ‘Hands-on’ learning centre with activities on themes relating to the Abbey such as: the monks’ day, archaeology, building and structures, work (including beekeeping and stained glass)
Observation beehive (seasonal)
Session introduced by Education Officer.
Allow an hour for up to 40 pupils. Must be booked in advance. Teachers and accompanying adults free. Suitable for all ages.
Interview a monk
A question and answer session with one of the Buckfast community. Takes place in a specially set aside area beside the Abbey Church. Allow 30 minutes. No charge. Suitable for all ages.
Workshop Sessions and Activity Trails
We have a range of workshop sessions and activity trails covering different subject areas and age groups. Please visit our Workshops or Resources for Exploring pages to find out more.
Other facilities
Video: introducing the Abbey’s history and the life and work of the monks. 20 minutes; continuous showings. Free
Lunch Room: undercover, heated lunch area with toilets. Seats 50. Video available. Free, but needs to be booked in advance.
Tours and Specialist Visits: we may be able to provide tours etc. for your group on topics outside the scope of normal visits. Please call to discuss your requirements.
Midday Prayer: you and your pupils are welcome to attend and listen to the monks Midday Prayer in the Abbey Church. Please be seated in the Nave by 1.00pm.
Want to know more?
Then please get in touch. Our education service can be flexible so if you want something that is not listed here please get in touch. We are happy to arrange specialist projects, staff training or enrichment days, residential visits etc.