This programme is for Primary schools within a 50 mile radius of Glen Affric - an Ancient Pine Forest 30miles west of Inverness.

Our Woodland Day Trip Programme was the first programme created at Wild things! and it is still going strong today! Primary school children from ages 7-11 years old are introduced to the Ancient Caledonian Pine Forest in Glen Affric National Nature Reserve. For many of the participants, this will be their first visit to a wilderness area.

Schools are offered three programmes over a three year period so that participants can build an ongoing relationship with their local natural environment over a period of time.

Classes will also work with a Wild things! leader in their school for half a day before their trip to Glen Affric. During this pre-trip visit, educational and conservation activities within school grounds will introduce the concepts of biodiversity to enhance the Glen Affric experience whilst also supporting the eco-schools programme.

Day trips incorporate story telling and each programme is based on characters from within these stories. The children learn by playing games that awaken their senses to their environment. Activities include collecting objects that are soft, hard or squidgy for their forest box, imagining they are owls and listening out for their prey, or working together to build a human tree or ‘disappear’ to their very own magic spot for 10 minutes.

Spirits of the Forest (P4)

• An introduction to the Caledonian Forest, its history and importance
• Why is a natural forest different to a commercially planted forest
• What creatures live in the Caledonian Forest
• Food webs and waste free lunch

Mission Sylvestrus (P5)

• Become a ‘Green Agent’ for the Day and explore the biodiversity of Glen Affric
• Learn why biodiversity is important
• Imaginative ways of gathering evidence to prove the forests in Glen Affric represent a balanced, healthy eco-system.

Conservation Days (P6/7)

• Carry out a conservation activity in Glen Affric
• Learn about other ways you can protect the ancient woodland and support biodiversity on your doorstep

Booking Information:

What is included ?

• Experienced and friendly Wild things! Leaders
• Half day pre-trip session at school
• Day trip to Glen Affric
• Minibus transport
• Equipment, tools and quality outdoor clothing (when required)

Group Sizes:

• Max 30 children for pre-trip session
• 10–14 children plus 1 teacher for Glen Affric day trip

 
Cost: As a result of our fundraising activity, and the generosity of grant-giving bodies and charitable trusts, we are able to cover much of the cost of our Woodland Day Trips and offer the programme at heavily subsidised rates. Please contact us for further details.


Click here for a booking form.

Our Day Trips programme is generously sponsored by Scottish Natural Heritage and other organisations and charitable trusts.