The nature reserve said it was delighted to provide specialist learning experiences outside of the classroom, during a poignant year for the attraction. Learning outside the classroom is known to boost children’s confidence, inspire curiosity about nature, bring classroom learning to life, and benefit students’ mental and physical well-being.
Chris Ford, RSPB Learning Manager at RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming school trips to RSPB Minsmere this spring and summer. We look forward to helping students experience the amazing hands-on learning that nature has to offer. We believe that school trips are an essential part of education and can have great learning benefits for students.
“Studies found that students retained information better when learning outdoors, bringing topics to life and improving learning in the classroom. Our RSPB school trips also encourage students to indulge in curiosity about the natural world. And help develop their social and personal skills – growing confidence in working with classmates and teachers in RSPB Minsmere’s unique green spaces.
Nature-focused sessions are offered for all ages, and RSPB specialists can help students of all abilities hunt creatures living in the reserve’s pond, search the woods for mini-beasts, identify the variety of birds in its wetlands and to discover the evolution of the coastline.
The sessions are said to provide an opportunity to inspire students to talk about science and geography, and RSPB Minsmere has been awarded the nationally recognized Learning Outside the Classroom quality badge, ensuring high-quality learning experiences. quality and effectively managed safety.
Matt Parrott, Visitor Experience Manager at RSPB Minsmere, said: “The reserve is full of exciting nature shows during these seasons. In the spring, students can hear the birdsong in our woods and wetlands, and the wildflowers on our dunes and meadows.
“In the summer, students can enjoy ponds and wetlands teeming with life, from tiny creatures in the ponds to fluffy chicks on the scratching. Schools could even book a bi-season trip to experience the magical seasonal changes in the reserve.
The RSPB also offers a range of free activities, resources and opportunities that help teachers and group leaders learn outdoors. More information is available at www.rspb.org.uk.
