School visits to Basingstoke Canal

A comprehensive education package has been designed for reception and keystage 1 and 2. Topics covered are, the Environment, History of the Canal, Art and Geography. We have built a nature study rea, which has been specifically designed for schools and other educational groups. We provide both guided and self guiding activities. Our School’s Programme runs throughout the year. We aim to be as flexible as possible so the time of your visit is entirely up to you.

Three Options are available to you

Option 1 – Come to us

Bring your group to the Canal Centre for the day where a package of activities is tailored to your requirements.

Maximum number of children 40

Option 2 – We’ll come to you

A member of staff from the Canal can visit your school with a wealth of information and a variety of activities. Maximum number of children is negotiable, please call the Centre for prices.

Option 3 – Let’s meet in the middle

A member of staff from the Canal can meet your group anywhere on the Canal for a guided walk with discussion about the Canal’s history and to identify wildlife.

Activities

Slideshow

The slideshow focuses on the history, wildlife and the maintenance of the Canal. Included in the price when the function room is hired.
Time: 45mins

Nature Walk - guided

Take a stroll along the towpath looking and identifying the different animals, insects and plants. It is also a good opportunity to have a close look at the boats moored on site.
Time: 45mins

Pond Dipping - self led or guided

An opportunity to have an in depth look at the variety of creatures of pond life. Instructions on pond dipping and help with identifying the different creatures found and the adaptations that they have for life in the water.
Time: 1 hour

Sketching - self led

This activity gives the opportunity to sketch the canal, wildlife and the boats using charcoal. It is possible to take rubbing or use natural material to make the pictures.
Time: 45 minutes

Mini Beast Hunt - self led or guided

This session involves catching and identifying the types mini beasts. The hunt focuses on three different areas, and the there is the chance to compare the mini beasts of areas that live in each area.
Time: 45 minutes

Food Chains - self led

This activity focuses on the wildlife on the canal and investigates life cycles and the adaptations that some of the animals have made in order to survive on the canal.
Time: 45 minutes

Map Work - self led

This activity falls into two parts. The first part involves recording information on a map and the second focuses on map reading correctly.
Time: 45 minutes