School visits to Lackford Lakes
Lackford Lakes Nature Reserve is a 398 acre wildlife haven of lakes, woodland and reedbed attracting a rich array of wildfowl, dragonflies, butterflies, and wildflowers.
Created from a network of disused sand gravel pits in the valley of the River Lakes, Lackford Lakes is now a thriving nature reserve designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Comprised of a complex mix of wetland, woodland, scrub, sandy heath and 11 lakes, the reserve's rich mosaic of habitat supports wildlife all year round; from rare wildflowers in the spring and butterflies in the summer, to wildfowl, wading birds, and raptors throughout autumn and winter.
Our visitor centre is located at the heart of the reserve and has a full classroom with a viewing gallery overlooking reedbed, covered outdoor space, picnic area, and toilets.
We have a range of different sessions to choose from for your school visit; all of which reflect the landscape, habitats, species, and history of the reserve. Select can select up to three sessions for your day.
Common darter dragonfly at Trimley Marshes - Phil Whittaker
Invertebrates
Investigate the lives, life cycles and habitats of invertebrates on the reserve and learn about classification and how to observe animals closely. Pupils can use magnifiers and ID sheets to help them identify and categorise a range of invertebrates according to their characteristics.
Download the session overview and learning objectives:
Lapwing (C) Whitfield Benson
Birds
An exciting programming investigating birds, their habitats, how they have adapted to fly, and how to identify them. Pupils can use binoculars and an identification guide to help them learn more about the species of bird at Lackford Lakes.
Download the session overview and learning objectives:
Ponds
An exciting way to investigate habitats, life cycles, learn about classification and how to closely observe creatures. Students will learn how to identify aquatic invertebrates that they may be unfamiliar with. All equipment required, including pond nets, white trays, viewers, spoons, and identification sheets, will be provided.
Download the session overview and learning objectives:
Acorns at Lackford Lakes 2022
Trees
This session offers an opportunity to discover trees by looking up close at the texture of the bark, leaf shapes and the animals living on them. Pupils can discuss the difference between deciduous and evergreen species. Key Stage 1 pupils will create natural artworks and Key Stage 2 pupils will use scientific equipment to calculate the height and age of a tree.
Download the session overviews and learning objectives:
Vipers bugloss by Emily Quilton
Plants
This session offers an opportunity for pupils to investigate the life cycles of plants, the roles of pollinators, and the function of different parts of the plant - all through games and activities. Pupils will look at the variety and diversity of flowering plants in the meadow habitats at Lackford Lakes.
Download the session overviews and learning objectives:
Photograph: Helena Dolby
Nature Connection
This full-day session is designed to inspire and strengthen pupil's connection with nature through a variety of activities exploring the reserve whilst encouraging them to be resourceful, creative, and considerate of nature.
Download the session overview and learning objective:
Further details and booking
A whole day session is £170 for a class of up to 28 children. For classes over 28 children, an additional £6.80 per student is charged (with a maximum capacity of 60 children per day). A usual day runs between 10am and 2pm, however we can be flexible an hour either side of this.
Our KS1 and KS2 sessions qualify for Natural England funding, therefore we are able to offer a limited number of these visits free of charge (on a first come, first served basis).
Adult:Student ratio requirements:
Nursery and Reception 1:4
KS1 1:6
KS2 1:8