Our country parks offer excellent outdoor environmental activity sessions for all ages which can be easily tailored to meet your needs. These run year round in all weathers, during school term times.
Barnwell Country Park, Sywell Country Park, Irchester Country Park, East Carlton Country Park and Fermyn Woods Country Park all provide Education Ranger-led sessions for various groups including:
playgroups
school groups (nursery to sixth form)
organisations such as youth clubs, out of school clubs, Scouts, Girl Guides and Brownies
adult and community organisations
What we can offer
experienced activity leaders
bespoke activity packages
practical and fun hands on sessions
pre-visit discussions and information
assistance with risk assessments
provision of all field equipment and materials
easy access trails
children’s play areas
a range of habitats
Ranger-led activities
We offer a variety of activities, listed below are the main themes which will give you an idea of what we can offer.
Each activity is generally based on a class of 30 pupils working with a Ranger (unless otherwise specified). If you are bringing a larger group, we can combine activities. Please bear in mind that moving between sessions takes time and may limit time spent on each activity.
Our Education Ranger-led sessions have been tailored to be relevant to national curriculum targets:
Half day session, suitable for primary, available at all parks, £5.50 per child
Session details
This session is available at all parks. Each park has a unique combination of naturally occurring habitats, so sessions may differ slightly between the parks and across the seasons.
A habitats session typically involves an easy ranger-led trail walk through the park to observe a variety of habitats, followed by a detailed examination of specific areas or microhabitats. Participants are also provided with an opportunity to study preserved animal homes that have been retained by the park.
This half-day program can be tailored to complement in-school learning by specifying areas of focus on the booking form. It is suitable for all primary age groups.
Key Stage 1 Science
observing closely, using simple equipment
identifying and classifying
identify and name a variety of common wild plants
identify and name a variety of common animals including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals
identify and name a variety of common animals that are carnivores, herbivores and omnivores
identify that most living things live in habitats to which they are suited and describe how different habitats provide for the basic needs of different kinds of animals and plants, and how they depend on each other
identify and name a variety of plants and animals in their habitats, including micro-habitats
describe how animals obtain their food from plants and other animals, using the idea of a simple food chain, and identify and name different sources of food
find out about and describe the basic needs of animals for survival (water, food and air)
Lower KS2 Science
gather, record, classify
record findings using simple scientific language, drawings, labelled diagrams, keys
recognise that living things can be grouped in a variety of ways
explore and use classification keys to help group, identify and name a variety of living things in their local and wider environment
recognise that environments can change and that this can sometimes pose dangers to living things
interpret a variety of food chains, identifying producers, predators and prey
Upper KS2 Science
record data and results of increasing complexity using scientific diagrams and labels, classification keys
describe how living things are classified into broad groups according to common observable characteristics and based on similarities and differences, including micro-organisms, plants and animals
give reasons for classifying plants and animals based on specific characteristics
describe the differences in the life cycles of a mammal, an amphibian, an insect and a bird
describe the life process of reproduction in some plants and animals
Half day session, suitable for KS1 at Barnwell Country Park, Fermyn Woods Country Park and Irchester Country Park and KS2 at all parks, £5.50 per child
Session details
A typical session for EYFS/KS1 focuses on introducing and consolidating compass skills through engaging games and activities. Children will receive an introduction to map reading with compasses, followed by a fun activity that allows them to apply their new knowledge in a practical setting.
For KS2, the session builds on these skills by including the use and familiarisation with Ordnance Survey (OS) maps, providing a deeper understanding of navigation and map interpretation suitable for their age and ability.
KS1 Geography
use basic geographical vocabulary to refer to key physical and human features
use simple compass directions (North, South, East and West) and locational and directional language - for example, near and far; left and right, to describe the location of features and routes on a map
use aerial photographs and plan perspectives to recognise landmarks and basic human and physical features
KS1 Mathematics
solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions
KS2 Geography
use the eight points of a compass, four and six-figure grid references, symbols and key (including the use of Ordnance Survey maps)
Half day session, suitable for primary, available at all parks, £5.50 per child
Session details
This session is available in all our parks in a dedicated minibeast area.
A typical session begins with an introduction to the fascinating world of minibeasts, including guidance on how to use collection equipment properly. Children will spend time in the park’s private minibeast-specific zone, where they can search for, collect, and identify a variety of creatures.
Additional activities depending on the season, may include long grass sweeping with nets and tree shaking, offering a contrasting environment of long grass/wildflowers to our minibeast zone.
KS1 Science
ask simple questions and recognise that they can be answered in different ways
use their observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions
observe closely, using simple equipment
identify and classify
identify and name a variety of common animals including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals
identify and name a variety of common animals that are carnivores, herbivores and omnivores
identify that most living things live in habitats to which they are suited and describe how different habitats provide for the basic needs of different kinds of animals and plants, and how they depend on each other
identify and name a variety of animals in their habitats, including micro-habitats
describe how animals obtain their food from plants and other animals, using the idea of a simple food chain, and identify and name different sources of food
find out about and describe the basic needs of animals for survival (water, food and air)
Lower KS2 Science
gather, record, classify
record findings using simple scientific language, drawings, labelled diagrams, keys
recognise that living things can be grouped in a variety of ways
explore and use classification keys to help group, identify and name a variety of living things in their local and wider environment
Upper KS2 Science
record data and results of increasing complexity using scientific diagrams and labels, classification keys
describe how living things are classified into broad groups according to common observable characteristics and based on similarities and differences, including animals
give reasons for classifying animals based on specific characteristics
Half day session, suitable for primary, available at all parks, £5.50 per child
Session details
This session begins with an introduction to compass and map use, teaching children essential navigation skills. Following this, participants engage in consolidation activities where they work to find map points around the area to solve a puzzle, putting their new skills into practice. Children are encouraged to collaborate in small groups, with the level of adult guidance tailored to the needs of each group, promoting teamwork, problem-solving, and independent learning.
KS1 Geography
use basic geographical vocabulary to refer to key physical and human features
use simple compass directions (North, South, East and West) and locational and directional language - for example, near and far; left and right, to describe the location of features and routes on a map
use aerial photographs and plan perspectives to recognise landmarks and basic human and physical features
KS1 Mathematics
solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions
KS2 Geography
use the eight points of a compass, four and six-figure grid references, symbols and key (including the use of Ordnance Survey maps)
Half day session, suitable for KS2, available at Barnwell Country Park, Fermyn Woods Country Park and Sywell Country Park, £5.50 per child
Session details
A typical session begins with an introduction to the diverse life found in our ponds, giving children the chance to learn about various aquatic creatures. Participants will have the exciting opportunity to examine these creatures up close, deepening their understanding of pond ecosystems.
Under the careful supervision of our experienced rangers, children can collect and identify their own specimens from the lakes/ponds, encouraging hands-on learning and exploration in a safe and supportive environment.
KS1 Science
observe closely, using simple equipment
identify and classify
identify and name a variety of common animals including fish and amphibians
describe and compare the structure of a variety of common animals including fish and amphibians
identify and name a variety of common animals that are carnivores, herbivores and omnivores
identify that most living things live in habitats to which they are suited and describe how different habitats provide for the basic needs of different kinds of animals and plants, and how they depend on each other
identify and name a variety of animals in their habitats, including micro-habitats
describe how animals obtain their food from plants and other animals, using the idea of a simple food chain, and identify and name different sources of food
find out about and describe the basic needs of animals for survival (water, food and air)
Lower KS2 Science
gather, record, classify
record findings using simple scientific language, drawings, labelled diagrams, keys
recognise that living things can be grouped in a variety of ways
explore and use classification keys to help group, identify and name a variety of living things in their local and wider environment
interpret a variety of food chains, identifying producers, predators and prey
Upper KS2 Science
record data and results of increasing complexity using scientific diagrams and labels, classification keys
give reasons for classifying animals based on specific characteristics
describe the differences in the life cycles of amphibians and insects
describe the life process of reproduction in some animals
describe how living things are classified into broad groups according to common observable characteristics and based on similarities and differences, including animals
give reasons for classifying animals based on specific characteristics
identify how animals are adapted to suit their environment in different ways and that adaptation may lead to evolution
Full day session, suitable for KS2, available at Barnwell Country Park, £10 per child
Session details
The day covers a variety of topics related to rivers, including their formation, course, and environmental impact. During the above-water sessions, participants will complete field study drawings and explore the river’s path through the park, examining the environment it supports. This includes discussing both the positive and negative effects the river can have, as well as the impacts of human activity.
Students will also learn about river management strategies aimed at protecting and sustaining this vital ecosystem. They will study the river’s flow and have the opportunity to engage in water testing, analysing water quality, and understanding how it affects aquatic life.
Additionally, children will enjoy the hands-on experience of creating their own model rivers, allowing them to experiment with flow, erosion, and other river dynamics in an engaging and educational way.
KS1 Geography
use basic geographical vocabulary to refer to key physical and human features
use aerial photographs and plan perspectives to recognise landmarks and basic human and physical features
use simple fieldwork and observational skills to study the geography of (a local environment) and the key human and physical features
KS1 Science
identify and name a variety of everyday materials, including water and rock
KS1 History
significant historical places in their own locality
KS2 History
a study over time tracing how several aspects of national history are reflected in the locality
Lower KS2 Science
describe in simple terms how fossils are formed when things that have lived are trapped within rock
recognise that soils are made from rocks and organic matter
identify the part played by evaporation and condensation in the water cycle and associate the rate of evaporation with temperature
Upper KS2 Science
use knowledge of solids, liquids and gases to decide how mixtures might be separated, including through filtering, sieving and evaporating
identify the effects of water resistance
recognise that living things have changed over time and that fossils provide information about living things that inhabited the Earth millions of years ago
Half day session, suitable for Primary, available at Irchester Country Park and East Carlton Country Park, £5.50 per child
Session details
This half-day session offers a diverse range of activities designed to teach participants about different types of rocks, their formation processes, and their historical uses.
The session begins with an exploration of our unique timeline, illustrating how the world evolved and providing context for the rocks and fossils participants will study. At Irchester, participants have the special opportunity to visit our ‘Red Mountain’ and learn about the park’s history of ironstone production.
At East Carlton the group will discuss the Jurassic Way, which can be seen from the park, and the Ichthyosaurus found in the area.
Children will then engage in hands-on geology activities, examining an extensive collection of rocks, fossils, and shells. Using various scientific tools, participants can closely observe and investigate these natural treasures, deepening their understanding of Earth’s history and the materials that shape our world.
KS1 Science
observe closely, using simple equipment
identify and classify
identify and name a variety of everyday materials, including rock
describe the simple physical properties of everyday materials
compare and group together a variety of everyday materials on the basis of their simple physical properties
find out how the shapes of solid objects made from some materials can be changed
Lower KS2 Science
gather, record, classify
compare and group together different kinds of rocks on the basis of their appearance and simple physical properties
describe in simple terms how fossils are formed when things that have lived are trapped within rock
recognise that soils are made from rocks and organic matter
observe that some materials change state when they are heated
Upper KS2 Science
recognise that living things have changed over time and that fossils provide information about living things that inhabited the the Earth millions of years ago
KS1 Geography
use basic geographical vocabulary to refer to physical and human features
understand the processes that give rise to key physical geographical features and how they change over time
use simple fieldwork and observational skills to study the geography and physical features of their surrounding environment
use aerial photographs and plan perspectives to recognise landmarks and basic human and physical features
KS2 Geography
Name key topographical features and land-use patterns; and understand how some of these aspects have changed over time
describe and understand key aspects of physical and human geography
Half day session, suitable for primary, available at all parks, £5.50 per child
Session details
This session is available in all parks and looks at the wonderful world of senses.
A typical session may include a sensory walk along an easy trail through the park, offering children the chance to fully engage with the world around them. Participants will have the opportunity to experience forest bathing, a calming practice that encourages mindfulness and connection with the natural environment. They can also try their hand at perfume making, crafting unique scents inspired by the forest. Other activities include sensory scavenger hunts to discover hidden natural treasures, using prism lenses to see the world from fascinating new perspectives, and exploring the diverse textures of the forest, enhancing their tactile awareness and appreciation for nature’s variety.
KS1 Science
Ask simple questions and recognise that they can be answered in different ways
observe closely
identify and classify
use their observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions
identify and name a variety of common wild plants, including deciduous and evergreen trees
identify and name a variety of plants and animals in their habitats, including micro-habitats
distinguish between an object and the material from which it is made
observe changes across the four seasons
Lower KS2 Science
ask relevant questions
make systematic and careful observations
identify differences, similarities or changes related to simple scientific ideas and processes
gather, record, classify
recognise that living things can be grouped in a variety of ways
recognise that environments can change and that this can sometimes pose dangers to living things
Upper KS2 Science
recognise that sounds get fainter as the distance from the sound source increases
describe how living things are classified into broad groups according to common observable characteristics and based on similarities and differences, including micro-organisms, plants and animals
Full day session, suitable for primary, available at Irchester Country Park and East Carlton Country Park, £10 per child
Session details
Children will have a fully immersive experience of life in the Stone Age, gaining hands-on knowledge of essential survival skills from the era. They will participate in den building, and fire lighting, providing insight into how humans kept themselves safe in the stone age era.
Exploring the park, participants learn about foraging, locating plants that would have been useful not just as a food source but for their wider survival needs. They will also have the opportunity to practice archery, developing skills with bows and arrows similar to those used by early hunter-gatherers.
Children will also spend time creating Stone Age art to take home. Options may include crafting clay hand warmers, designing Hapa Zome art, or making stone age cave art.
KS1 History
events beyond living memory that are significant nationally or globally
KS2 History
changes in Britain from the Stone Age to the Iron Age
KS1 Science
identify and name a variety of common wild plants
identify and name a variety of plants in their habitats
find out about and describe the basic needs of animals, including humans, for survival (water, food and air)
distinguish between an object and the material from which it is made
identify and name a variety of everyday materials, including wood, water, and rock
describe the simple physical properties of a variety of everyday materials
identify and compare the suitability of a variety of everyday materials, including wood and rock for particular uses
Lower KS2 Science
recognise that environments can change and that this can sometimes pose dangers to living things
Lower KS2 Science
identify how animals and plants are adapted to suit their environment in different ways and that adaptation may lead to evolution
KS1 PSHE
to listen to other people, and play and work cooperatively
meet and talk with people
develop relationships through work and play
KS2 PSHE
that their actions affect themselves and others, to care about other people’s feelings and to try to see things from their points of view
meet and talk with people – for example, people who work in the neighbourhood
develop relationships through work and play
Half day session, suitable for primary, available at all parks, £5.50 per child
Session details
During this session, participants will discover how well they could thrive in the wild through hands-on survival challenges. Children will practice fire-lighting, build sturdy dens, make tracks and SOS signals, and craft simple water carriers—gaining confidence, teamwork, and real-world outdoor skills along the way.
KS1 Science
identify and name a variety of common wild plants
identify and name a variety of plants in their habitats
find out about and describe the basic needs of animals, including humans, for survival (water, food and air)
Lower KS2 Science
recognise that environments can change and that this can sometimes pose dangers to living things
KS1 Geography
key physical features, including: beach, cliff, coast, forest, hill, mountain, sea, ocean, river, soil, valley, vegetation, season and weather
use simple compass directions (North, South, East and West) and locational and directional language
for example, near and far, left and right, to describe the location of features and routes on a map
KS1 PSHE
to listen to other people, and play and work cooperatively
meet and talk with people
develop relationships through work and play
KS2 PHSE
that their actions affect themselves and others, to care about other people's feelings and to try to see things from their points of view
meet and talk with people – for example, people who work in the neighbourhood
develop relationships through work and play
Half day session, suitable for primary, available at Irchester Country Park and East Carlton Country Park £5.50 per child
Session details
This half-day session is packed with a variety of fun and interesting activities specifically designed to encourage children to work together as a team. Through hands-on challenges and creative tasks, children will develop important skills like collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. Each activity is crafted to inspire teamwork as participants tackle engaging problems or complete exciting group tasks, helping them build confidence and strengthen their ability to cooperate with others in a supportive and enjoyable environment.
English (spoken language years 1 to 6)
listen and respond appropriately to adults and their peers
ask relevant questions to extend their understanding and knowledge
consider and evaluate different viewpoints, attending to and building on the contributions of others
maintain attention and participate actively in collaborative conversations, staying on topic and initiating and responding to comments
use spoken language to develop understanding through speculating, hypothesising, imagining and exploring ideas
KS1 Mathematics
solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions
KS1 PSHE
to listen to other people, and play and work cooperatively
meet and talk with people
develop relationships through work and play
KS2 PSHE
that their actions affect themselves and others, to care about other people's feelings and to try to see things from their points of view
meet and talk with people – for example, people who work in the neighbourhood
develop relationships through work and play
Half day session, suitable for KS2, available at Sywell Country Park, £5.50 per child
Session details
This half-day session introduces Sywell Reservoir, providing participants with insight into the site’s historical significance and a clear understanding of how reservoirs function. Through a blend of interactive and educational activities, the session engages students with both the scientific and cultural aspects of the reservoir.
The program can be tailored to meet the specific needs of individual classes to align with curriculum requirements. Topics may include the reservoir’s history and its role in the local community, the function and design of reservoirs, water management and the water cycle, filtration and purification processes, and the importance of reservoirs in water conservation and distribution.
This session offers a rich educational experience that combines history, science, and environmental awareness, suitable for a wide range of primary age groups.
KS1 Geography
use basic geographical vocabulary to refer to key physical and human features
use aerial photographs and plan perspectives to recognise landmarks and basic human and physical features
use simple fieldwork and observational skills to study the geography of (a local environment) and the key human and physical features
KS1 Science
identify and name a variety of everyday materials, including water and rock
KS1 History
significant historical places in their own locality
KS2 History
a study over time tracing how several aspects of national history are reflected in the locality
Lower KS2 Science
describe in simple terms how fossils are formed when things that have lived are trapped within rock
recognise that soils are made from rocks and organic matter
identify the part played by evaporation and condensation in the water cycle and associate the rate of evaporation with temperature
Upper KS2 Science
use knowledge of solids, liquids and gases to decide how mixtures might be separated, including through filtering, sieving and evaporating
identify the effects of water resistance
recognise that living things have changed over time and that fossils provide information about living things that inhabited the Earth millions of years ago
Half day session, suitable for primary, available at all parks, £5.50 per child
Session details
This session, available at all parks, is dependent on the season and can be tailored to all curriculum stages.
A typical session covers a range of important topics related to plants and their role in the environment. Participants will explore why plants are essential to life on Earth and learn about their various uses. They will also learn about plant life cycles from germination to maturity covering key concepts such as seed dispersal and pollination. Additionally, the session will broaden students’ understanding of the wider environment in which plants live, emphasizing the interconnectedness between plants, animals, and ecosystems.
All topics are presented through engaging, interactive games and hands-on activities that reinforce and consolidate learning from the classroom.
KS1 Science
ask simple questions and recognising that they can be answered in different ways
observe closely
identify and classify
use their observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions
identify and describe the basic structure of a variety of common flowering plants, including trees
identify and name a variety of common wild plants, including deciduous and evergreen trees
distinguish between an object and the material from which it is made
observe changes across the four seasons
identify and name a variety of plants and animals in their habitats, including micro-habitats
describe how animals obtain their food from plants
Lower KS2 Science
ask relevant questions
make systematic and careful observations
identify differences, similarities or changes related to simple scientific ideas and processes
gather, record, classify
recognise that living things can be grouped in a variety of ways
identify and describe the functions of different parts of flowering plants: roots, stem/trunk, leaves and flowers
explore the requirements of plants for life and growth (air, light, water, nutrients from soil, and room to grow) and how they vary from plant to plant
investigate the way in which water is transported within plants
explore the part that flowers play in the life cycle of flowering plants, including pollination, seed formation and seed dispersal.
recognise that environments can change and that this can sometimes pose dangers to living things
Upper KS2 Science
describe the life process of reproduction in some plants
describe how living things are classified into broad groups according to common observable characteristics and based on similarities and differences, including micro-organisms and plants
Our Ranger-led outdoor environmental activities are intended to be great fun as well as a great learning experience.
Our aim is to help people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds participate in enjoyable hands on activities that:
increase enjoyment, understanding and care for the country parks and the wider natural environment
foster an awareness of sustainability through the study of habitats, plants and animals, their life processes, ecosystems and of how our own actions affect the environment in which we live
support the national curriculum and encourage participation in extra-curricular activities and extended services
encourage healthy outdoor activity
However, to help keep your group completely safe from the hazards posed by the natural world, please make sure that you have prepared your group using the simple precautions below. We will reinforce these messages on the day of your visit.
Please ensure your group comes prepared with clothing suitable for the activity, weather and terrain they are likely to encounter
Please ensure you have made suitable First Aid provision for your group
Please advise us of any special needs of individuals in your group
Your group will be encouraged to touch plants, soil and even certain creatures; however we ask that they should not eat or drink anything other than their own packed lunch unless given to them by a Ranger
To guard against water-borne diseases such as Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease), it is recommended that you check if anyone in your group has an open cut on the hand or forearm as they will not be allowed direct physical contact with the pond / river water - you may wish to cover any other minor closed scratches with waterproof plasters or latex gloves before the activity
There is always the risk that children will encounter stinging or biting insects so please be aware of any particular allergies in your group
Please ask your group not to pet dogs at the park and to be aware that there may be animal droppings around (including dogs)
Please ensure that your group wash their hands with soap and water after the activities (especially before eating or drinking) - there are toilets at the parks but you may wish to bring your own wipes
If anyone develops flu-like symptoms within two weeks of a water-based activity, their doctor should be advised that the person has been in contact with pond / river water
We are confident that if these simple precautions are followed there will be no significant risk to your group from these hugely beneficial activities.
Youth, adults and corporate groups
You can take part in various activities at our country parks and woodlands, including ranger-led sessions in our private Wild Zones and corporate volunteering opportunities.
We can work with you to create a tailored session, either by adapting one of our existing activities, designing something entirely new, or simply providing a unique location for your regular group sessions.
Our Reconnect at the Park sessions provide a refreshing opportunity for colleagues to step away from the pressures of the working day.
Bespoke adult activities
If you work with people with long-term health conditions or another group of people who would benefit from getting out and about in our parks please get in touch. As well as our public activity sessions we are able to work with you to provide bespoke activities in the parks that would meet the needs of your groups.
Working with you we can modify one of our established sessions, create something completely new or even just be a new place to host one of your normal group sessions.