Education at Durlston

Durlston is a superb outdoor classroom with a wealth of opportunities to enhance the study of geography, science, history, art and much more.

Whether bringing students face to face with Britain's biggest insect on a mini beast safari, leading a discussion on balancing the needs of visitors and wildlife or exploring "life on the edge" in one of the largest Guillemot colonies on the south coast, the rangers can offer students an unforgettable day.

The rangers are pleased to work with teachers to tailor each session to your learning needs.

Visit the centre (free of charge)

A great starting point for your visit with interactive displays, up to date information, centre quiz, souvenirs and educational material. You must book your visit in advance.

Discovery sessions (£1–2 per child)

Ranger-led sessions to discover the wonders of the area. There are nine topics to choose from, all linked to the National Curriculum, and many have associated worksheets for follow-up work. Further information on discovery sessions can be found on the left.

Discovery through observation (£15 per session, 1 hour)

Hire the observation hide overlooking the wildlife area.

The hide is reached through the visitor centre and provides a great chance to see wildlife at close quarters. A great base to begin your exploration of Durlston. Worksheets, binoculars and reference books are available. Includes a 10 minute introduction from a ranger.

There's a lobster in my classroom! (2 weeks £5 or 4 weeks £10)

Marine education pack for the classroom

Treasure chests full of information and useful props for an underwater voyage of discovery. The teacher's notes help you to plan sessions.

Activity books (£1 each – reduced cost for large orders)

Full of amazing facts, puzzles and investigative questions encouraging children to explore their surroundings. Linked to the National Curriculum. (The activity books follow the clifftop and woodland trails.)

Durlston management plan CD (£10)

An invaluable resource for educators and students studying countryside management, environmental science or geography and tourism at GCSE level or higher. Includes the Durlston management plan, biodiversity management plan and an introduction to key issues and conflicts, with points for discussion. An ideal companion to the "country park management on a world heritage site" discovery session.

Way marked trails (trail leaflets 25p each)

A good way to explore Durlston on your own is to follow one of the trails - woodland, wildlife and clifftop (there is also the Victorian trail that starts in Swanage and follows the coastal path up to Durlston). Each trail is clearly way marked and has an associated leaflet highlighting various points of interest along the route.

Local schools

We have helped local schools at no charge with wildlife surveys, producing displays and artwork, practical conservation work and trialling new discovery sessions. If your school is within the Purbeck area, get in touch to find out how your students can get involved with projects at Durlston.