Teacher's Information

Things To See Notes & Guidance for Educational Visits

These pages will be expanded as further information for teachers is developed.

Things To See

Here are several ideas concerning some of the possibilities available. This is only a guide as not all these activities can be seen at all times. Some are very seasonal. The size of the group needs careful consideration. Probably the best number is 30 or less. Parents are always welcome to accompany the group.

Conservation

• Role of sporting interests in shaping the countryside. Hedges, coverts, shelter belts, conservation headlands, beetle banks etc
• Reason for gamecrops and their value for songbirds
• Fishery management
• Deer, deerparks, reasons for culling
• Grouse moor management

Duties of a Gamekeeper

• Demonstrations of laying pheasants, partridge
• Principles of incubation. Incubators and hatcheries
• Laying units for pheasant and partridge
• Rearing field. Chicks, poults
• Release pens
• Training and working of gun dogs
• Pest control methods and reasons

Many other country activities may also be seen if convenient

• Farming activities e.g. milking shearing, sheep dipping, hedge laying, ploughing
• Stables; livery and racing
• Hunt kennels; use of hounds, blacksmith and farrier

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Notes & Guidance for Educational Visits

Throughout each visit a representative of the Trust will be present. In order to help children and class teachers make the most of an educational visit the following notes may help plan the day:

1. Supervision

The group must be adequately supervised. The Trust rcommends at least one adult to every ten children. The Trust very much welcomes Parents, Governors or other responsible adults to come along

2. Hygiene

Handling of animals: Animals must not be handled without permission

Soap & Washing: In order to facilitate washing during the day the teacher in charge should bring soap, paper towels & anti-bacterial wipes. Before eating or drinking all children & attendant adults will wash their hands thoroughly

Footwear: Before the return journey footwear will be inspected and cleaned

3. Transport

The school should arrange the transport & pay the invoice from the coach firm when received. The coach may be required all day unless informed otherwise. The Trust can re-imburse the school, if necessary, for any shortfall in the hire cost of the coach provided a copy of the paid invoice is sent to the Trust. However, the school should try to raise as much as possible to offset the costs involved

4. Clothing

Appropriate outdoor clothing and sensible footwear should be worn ( wellies or boots are ideal)

5. Food Both children and adults may need to bring packed lunches

6. Useful items to bring Bin bag for litter, drawing equipment (paper, pens etc) and a camera

7. Thank You Letters

The Trust asks children to write and thank their hosts after a visit. They are always delighted to receive letters from children and are disappointed when none appear.

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Any school or estate wishing to get involved in this type of activity, please contact:
BRIAN HAYES.
NGO C.T.
P.O. BOX 3360
STOURBRIDGE
DY7 5YG

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