We give schools the unique opportunity to make their school trip so much more than they traditionally are. We allow the teachers to deliver their curriculum to students in an environment where their minds are so open and so ready to absorb information that the retention rate of knowledge far exceeds that when taught in a traditional classroom. Yes, we can still offer the usual soft skill elements like tree climbing and camp fire building, but now teachers can use these scenarios to cover genuine curriculum material, designed by local, expert teachers so that the school trip can be so much more than an 'end of the year' treat for students!
We have 'educationalised' many of your favourite Island visitor attractions and developed well over 700 resource packs to help reinforce learning whilst enjoying fun days out. Physics at the IW Steam Railway. Maths at Dinosaur Isle. Geography at Tapnell Farm. Unique Coastal, Arts and Church trails. All FREE of charge for Education Destination schools. We are an ABTOT member. ABTOT cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if transportation was included in your package.
What activities are available during educational visits in 2026?
We have well over 700 resource packs right across the National Curriculum and for all age groups, but mainly for KS2/KS3.
> Compare pirates past and present at Blackgang Chine (English ' Spoken Language, KS3)
> Learn about Paleoart at Dinosaur Expeditions (Art & Design ' Creativity, KS2-3)
> Can you outrun a dinosaur? at Dinosaur Isle (Mathematics ' Number, KS3)
> TrigonomeTREE at Goodleaf Tree Climbing (Mathematics ' Geometry, KS3)
> The Power of Steam at IW Steam Railway (Science ' Chemistry, KS2)
> Troubled Waters! Investigating conflict on Southampton Water with Red Funnel Ferries (Geography ' Human & Physical, KS4)
> Motion and Force at Robin Hill Toboggan (Science ' Physics KS2)
> Dairy Diversified ' Mooving on from Dairy at Tapnell Farm Park (Geography ' Human & Physical, KS3)
> History of Religion at The Model Village, Godshill (Religious Education ' History of Religion, KS2)
> Solent Defence ' a History Study with Wightlink Ferries (History ' History Study, KS2)
> Waiting on Hand & Foot at Osborne House with Mrs Pilkington
... and many, many more! Feel free to browse on our website, or tell us what subjects & topics you want to touch on during your trip and we'll suggest the best mix of activities to suit.
Which curriculum topics do we cater for?
Monarchs School Trip
Much of the Island's architecture is Victorian, with many of our seaside resorts proving popular in the era. The amazing Ryde Pier is of Victorian heritage and is still used today by both trains and cars to reach the ferry terminal a quarter of a mile into the Solent.
Local History School Trip
Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
Prehistory School Trip
Let Education Destination transport you away to another world in another time - you can take a dino-focused trip taking in several themed activities, or include a fossil hunt or handling session in amongst a wider cross-curricular visit.
Twentieth Century School Trip
20th Century: It is also notably rich in archaeology presenting a wealth of opportunities to discover evidence for Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
Victorian School Trip
Victorian Britain
Themed school trips to the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight has a big claim to fame when it comes to the Victorian period - we are home to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's holiday home Osborne House at East Cowes!
You can come and visit the house and grounds and gain a fantastic insight into the private lives of this much loved (and feared) monarch.
Much of the Island's architecture is Victorian, with many of our seaside resorts proving popular in the era. The amazing Ryde Pier is of Victorian heritage and is still used today by both trains and cars to reach the ferry terminal a quarter of a mile into the Solent.
Historic Events Beyond Living Memory
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The Isle of Wight is one of the world's most highly regarded fossil and dinosaur locations with internationally important Cretaceous deposits and rare fossil finds. It is also notably rich in archaeology presenting a wealth of opportunities to discover evidence for Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
Edwardian
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Edwardians: The Isle of Wight is one of the world's most highly regarded fossil and dinosaur locations with internationally important Cretaceous deposits and rare fossil finds. It is also notably rich in archaeology presenting a wealth of opportunities to discover evidence for Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
Elizabethans
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The Isle of Wight has a big claim to fame when it comes to the Victorian period - we are home to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's holiday home Osborne House at East Cowes!
You can come and visit the house and grounds and gain a fantastic insight into the private lives of this much loved (and feared) monarch.
Much of the Island's architecture is Victorian, with many of our seaside resorts proving popular in the era. The amazing Ryde Pier is of Victorian heritage and is still used today by both trains and cars to reach the ferry terminal a quarter of a mile into the Solent.
Georgian
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Georgians: The Isle of Wight is one of the world's most highly regarded fossil and dinosaur locations with internationally important Cretaceous deposits and rare fossil finds. It is also notably rich in archaeology presenting a wealth of opportunities to discover evidence for Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
Industrial
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Industrial: Often referred to as Britain in Miniature, the Isle of Wight offers an extremely diverse study ground for Geography students. Areas of the Island have their own micro-climate, favoured by Victorian trippers, and soft clay & chalk areas suffer badly from erosion. Accessible cliffs and beaches offer perfect hands-on close-up study opportunities.
As a result of all of the amazing study opportunities offered by the Island, our local venues and visitor attractions have invested in a wide range of detailed Human & Physical Geography learning resources detailed below. We don't think you'll find a more comprehensive set of materials anywhere else.
Medieval
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We offer Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
Religious Education
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Religion is a big part of society and has been for millennia. Since well before Roman times, the Isle of Wight has been continuously inhabited, and as such it is a perfect place to observe thousands of years of Christianity through its dozens of stunning churches as well as its surviving Benedictine monastery at Quarr.
Romans
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The Roman name for the Isle of Wight was Vectis Insula, and the Island was home to many examples of Roman architecture including at least seven villas, two of which are preserved for visitors today, and a third has been catalogued and re-buried for eventual excavation.
The Romans occupied the Isle of Wight for nearly 400 years, and the Island was an agricultural centre.
Saxons
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It is also notably rich in archaeology presenting a wealth of opportunities to discover evidence for Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
Significant Individuals from History
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The Isle of Wight, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, has been a home to many significant individuals who have left their mark on the world. A visit to this enchanting island offers a unique opportunity for students to learn about the lives and achievements of these notable figures.
One of the most famous residents of the Isle of Wight was Queen Victoria. She and her family often visited the island, and Osborne House, their former summer residence, is now a popular tourist attraction. Students can explore the grand rooms, gardens, and personal belongings of the royal family, gaining a glimpse into their lives and times.
Another significant figure associated with the Isle of Wight is Alfred Tennyson, the poet laureate of England. Tennyson lived on the island for many years and was inspired by its beauty and tranquility. His poems often featured themes of nature, love, and loss, and his work continues to be celebrated today.
For those interested in science and exploration, the Isle of Wight is also the birthplace of Charles Darwin. Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection was groundbreaking and had a profound impact on our understanding of the world. Visitors can explore the places where Darwin lived and worked, learning about his discoveries and the significance of his contributions to science.
These are just a few examples of the notable individuals who have called the Isle of Wight home. By visiting the island, students can connect with the rich history and cultural heritage of this special place. They can learn about the lives and achievements of these significant figures and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Tudors
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Tudors: It is also notably rich in archaeology presenting a wealth of opportunities to discover evidence for Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
Vikings
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Vikings: 20th Century: It is also notably rich in archaeology presenting a wealth of opportunities to discover evidence for Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
World War
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World Wars: The Isle of Wight is one of the world's most highly regarded fossil and dinosaur locations with internationally important Cretaceous deposits and rare fossil finds. It is also notably rich in archaeology presenting a wealth of opportunities to discover evidence for Prehistoric, Roman, Saxon, Medieval and Victorian life through an array of historic landscapes, preserved buildings and interactive museums. The Island's unique position off the south coast of England has given it a focus for invasion and defence throughout the ages and you can enjoy a rich legacy of maritime heritage, especially shipwrecks and fortifications.
What size groups do we cater for?
Any thing from just a few students through to groups of 250 in one venue. We also have the option to use multiple venues so really there is no upper limit.
On-site classroom facilities?
Yes, most of our venues have a classroom or usable space for any paperwork. Our accommodation providers also all have suitable spaces
Is there first aid on site?
Yes, the majority of sites have registered 1st aiders but schools must also provide sufficient 1st aiders within their group
Access for visitors with disabilities
Yes we have venues that are fully capable of handling visitors with additional physical needs. If you have a specific need, just ask, we will always try to find a solution.
Visitors with Special Educational Needs (SEN)
SEND / Additional Support Needs
Education Destination is committed to helping teachers and SENCOs provide inclusive trips for groups containing students with special requirements.
We work closely with all of our partners and venues to understand their provisions and limitations for visitors with additional needs
All our partner venues are required to provide sample Risk Assessments and all are encouraged to publish or develop comprehensive Access Statements
Whatever your particular needs, Education Destination can advise on venues and activities to suit your students.
We work in exclusive partnership with Victoria Lodge in sunny Shanklin on the Isle of Wight, specialists in hosting SEN groups of between 10 and 50 guests, including adapted ground floor bedrooms, as well as a number of other hotels, guest houses and glamping sites across the island that regularly cater for SEN guests with less demanding needs.
Ways We Can Help
We can vary activities (physical and academic) to suit
With sufficient notice we can adapt teaching resources and activities or develop specific learning programmes
Many of our resources are already differentiated by design, and supplied for various key stages which gives you a lot of inherent flexibility for mixed ability groups
We can liaise with your SENCO and all our partners to ensure we understand and are fully prepared for your additional needs students
We will work with your chosen venues to adapt service provision as required
We can provide chaperones to boost supervision ratios and help deal with challenging behaviours
We can arrange specialist transport, facilities and accommodation if needed
We will be honest with you about problems we know you will encounter
Anything else?
Whilst this website suggests that the only options for overnight accommodation on residentials are camping or dormitories, be aware that the majority of our accommodation partners are HOTELS. Being located in a popular tourist destination we can provide exclusive use of hotels and guest houses of different sizes, from 10 to many hundreds of visitors. All the fun of the Isle of Wight and comfortable home-from-home accommodation!!
Who are Education Destination?
WELCOME TO EDUCATION DESTINATION - The Island Classroom
We are an Isle of Wight based company, specialising in providing BESPOKE, CURRICULUM-FOCUSED school trips to our beautiful island that are different to anything else available. We can provide a FULL DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE, taking care of all your ACCOMMODATION requirements, TRANSPORT and venue TICKETS or simply support you in making your own arrangements. We support the visits with an unbeatable selection of over 750 professionally developed educational resources that connect directly with National Curriculum topics to provide academic learning outside the classroom.
Why use us?
We are an ABTOT member. ABTOT cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if transportation was included in your package.
• We provide RISK ASSESSMENTS, detailed day-by-day guides & parent presentations.
• We can supply DOOR TO DOOR transport, including the ferry.
• The LEARNING starts on the ferry with CURRICULUM led resources available.
• We supply FREE pre-prepared, educational resources and support.
• ALL 700+ learning materials are curriculum led and key stage relevant.
• We are on hand 24/7 for support should you need ANYTHING on your visit.
• We implement our Safety Management System covering all accommodation options.
• We take away the need for expensive pre-trip visits, saving time and money
• We will assist in planning YOUR pre-trip visit if you still feel you need one
• Costs no more than booking directly, yet you can let us do all the work!
This is how we are making the Isle of Wight the foremost destination for educational school trips in the UK. The unique, ALL INCLUSIVE packages that we offer are saving teachers time and stress in the organising of trips and providing them with the chance to fit areas of the curriculum into the fun of a school trip.
Where better to study the power of steam than on a real steam engine? How better to study and identify leaves than while being hoisted up the trees that grow them?
Create MEMORABLE experiences that will stay with the students, as will the information they learn.
There is a huge swing towards this type of school trip and paired with the service we provide, this is allowing us to make EDUCATION DESTINATION the first place many schools now look at for their school trip needs.
We are bursting with school trip ideas on places that deliver first class teaching both outside the classroom and as in-school workshops. Feel free to use our tailor-made trip form and we can help you find the perfect experience for your class!