Key Stage 3 and 4
Suggested day programmes
Please note that we are happy to tailor these programmes to your specifications including BTEC Applied Science, GCSE courses and less formal award schemes such as ASDAN and the John Muir Award.
Wild Places of Attenborough (Science, Geography)
Apr-Oct
Study different habitats such as freshwater, woodland and grassland to gain an introduction to ecological sampling techniques. This programme will develop identification skills whilst investigating scientific and ecological questions. A number of different investigations are available including comparison of freshwater invertebrates between different water bodies, using quadrats to record plant biodiversity in managed and unmanaged grassland and woodland surveys. Habitat management techniques can be discussed (and/or practised) with reserve staff.
Saving Our Planet (Science, Geography, Citizenship)
All year
Attenborough Nature Centre has been designed and built to be as eco-friendly as possible. Use our inspirational setting to explore aspects of sustainability including resource use, water conservation, food miles, eco footprinting, biodiversity and climate change. The emphasis is on positive solutions rather than all doom and gloom!
The Future is Green! (Science, Geography, DT, Citizenship)
All year
Aimed at upper KS2 and lower KS3 this exciting programme provides a hands-on experience to learn about climate change, renewable energy (solar and wind) and to consider sustainable building practices. Solar and wind power kits will be used to explore the practicalities of exploiting renewable energy and to show how we can all do our bit to combat climate change. Support from HSBC and Nottinghamshire County Council may enable a transport subsidy to be made available for your visit.
Life in the Water (Science, Geography)
Apr-Oct
Observe and record the variety of bird life seen from our hide. Classify your observation by adaptation and link to feeding and food chains. Observe different feeding techniques and classify accordingly. Collect and record aquatic invertebrates from different sub habitats of the lake (e.g. open water, reed margins, etc.) Classify by adaptations. Link favoured bird habitat and feeding technique to invertebrate prey using food chains and food webs.
Exploring Attenborough (Geography, IT, Citizenship)
All year
Look at habitat formation and succession over time linked to the relationship between industry and nature conservation. Draw maps to scale and produce a reserve trail for a given audience. Look at the pressures of recreation and nature conservation.
Outdoor and Adventurous (Citizenship, Geography, PSHE)
All year
Develop team work and survival skills. Use physical and mental skills to complete a number of challenges in small teams including rope walks, map reading, blindfold and memory trails, compass work and problem solving.
Wild About Art (Art & Design, DT)
All year
Use Attenborough as a source of inspiration for a variety of art work. Use natural materials to create sculptures that are part of the environment and will disintegrate over time or recycled materials to create something desirable from rubbish. Try paper making, textile weaving or willow weaving.
