The RSPB will be offering free educational school trips at several of their Dorset sites to get kids exploring nature.

This autumn RSPB Arne and RSPB Radipole Lake nature reserves, and Livability Holton Lee in Dorset, are launching free educational school trips to these sites. Curriculum-linked sessions will be led by RSPB professionals, with half visits available to book now for the autumn and spring 2022/2023 terms.

Children can observe special creatures that live at RSPB Radipole Lake nature reserve, to discovering heathland plant life at RSPB Arne, identifying minibeasts, bird watching, fieldwork, and more.

These free sessions are on offer from Early Years right through to A-Level, encouraging students to use all their senses to explore the natural world around them. All sessions offer an opportunity to help students talk about science and geography, meet their learning objectives, and use technical vocabulary in context.  

David Blake, RSPB Dorset Visitor Experience Manager, said: “We’re so excited to offer free school trips to the RSPB in Dorset and our special hosts, Livability Holton Lee this coming autumn and spring.

"We feel that school trips are an essential part of education and can have great learning benefits for students.

“Studies have found students retain information better when learning outside, bringing to life subjects, and enhancing classroom learning.

"Our free RSPB school trips also encourage students to enjoy a curiosity about the natural world. And help to develop their social and personal skills – growing confidence in working together with classmates and teachers in RSPB Dorset’s unique green spaces.” 

The sessions are totally free thanks to funding from the Government’s Countryside Stewardship Scheme.

Furthermore, David says that the educational visits also help benefit special educational needs (SEN) students - as there are new visual and sensory experiences available at Dorset sites that can deepen their understanding of topics and help them to engage with people and activities outside the classroom.

David added: “Sadly, studies have shown that children are spending less time outside in nature. The RSPB’s ambition is to help more children across the country benefit from spending time outdoors and discovering the natural world around them. Research shows that children who have a healthy connection to nature are more likely to benefit from higher achievement at school, better mental and physical health, and emotional well-being, and develop stronger social skills.

"A free school trip to our RSPB Dorset nature reserves and Livability Holton Lee, is the perfect chance to experience nature first-hand, and make exciting discoveries to enhance classroom learning.”

The RSPB also offers a range of activities, resources and opportunities that support teachers to take learning outdoors and inspire students to discover and delight in nature when back in the classroom and school grounds. To find out more visit: rspb.org.uk/fun-and-learning/for-teachers 

To book your school trip contact:

RSPB Arne or Livability Holton Lee: arne@rspb.org.uk

RSPB Radipole Lake or RSPB Lodmoor: reserves@rspb.org.uk