Wakehurst - Top tips for teachers

Top tips for teachers bringing school groups to Wakehurst. These useful tips will help you to organise a successful school visit.

1. Take up the offer of a planning visit

Every school has different goals and expectations of what they want from a visit to Wakehurst.

It is because of this that we strongly recommend a planning visit to Wakehurst .You will have the opportunity to discuss your visit with the Wakehurst Teacher who will be with you on the day. This free pre-visit planning session is essential for teachers leading a group in order that the following can be discussed:

selection of workshop / trails / fieldwork
party and group size - organisation and timetabling
equipment and resources required
levels of support from Wakehurst staff and volunteers
location(s) and trail route(s)
suitable clothing
whether a snack will be required
provision required for any student with special needs
health and safety issues both general and in relation to selected modules
risk assessments

2. Organise student groups and adult supervisors prior to the visit

The size of groups will be established at the planning meeting. Each group should be allocated an adult.

3. Brief staff and adult helpers prior to your visit

Make staff and helpers aware of the timetable for the day. All staff and helpers must stay with their groups and involve themselves in the activities with the students. Wakehurst staff will be with the groups at all times and therefore it is not necessary for group leaders to carry timetables.

4. Know what to do if your arrival is delayed

If you are unexpectedly delayed, please contact the Wakehurst Team. We will look at ways to revise the timetable for your visit.