At RSPB Sandwell Valley we bring learning to life. We offer a full range of habitat-based activities where children discover for themselves the wildlife living on the reserve. Our fun and interactive sessions are curriculum-linked and designed to connect children to nature and inspire a life long love of the plants and animals around them.
What teachers say; 'Probably one of the best visits I have taken children on in the 10 years I have been a teacher' Sarah Dolman, Summerhill Primary
'It was wonderful. A lovely day with well organized activities' Leanne Cheek, Coppice Primary
'Do you live here Miss? I wish I could' K S 1 visitor
Why book RSPB Sandwell Valley for School Trips and Educational Visits?
RSPB Sandwell Valley is a brilliant venue and our visitor feedback is consistently outstanding.
We are conveniently located on the outskirts of Birmingham and the Black Country and are within easy reach of thousands of schools.
We have a beautifully compact site with an accessible range of habitats for children to safely explore. Ponds, meadows, woodland and a garden are all nearby.
We also have a bird hide on stilts, overlooking the lake.
Every child will have the opportunity to discover the miniature world of nature for themselves, assisted by knowledgeable staff and volunteers and using specialised equipment.
We have a picnic area outside the visitor centre facilities. Visit us for a memorable day where learning is experiential and FUN.
We hold a certificate of excellence from the CLOtC.
What activities are available during group visits?
EYFS & KS1 Brilliant Birds
EYFS & KS1 Discovering Land Minibeasts
EYFS & KS1 Seasonal Sensory Walk
EYFS & KS1 Discovering Pond Minibeasts
KS1 Plant Detectives.
KS2 sessions Rocks and Soils
KS2 Investigating Minibeasts
KS2 Living Things & Their Habitats
KS2 Pond Habitat Study
KS2 Discovering Birds
KS2 River Investigation
What size groups do you cater for?
We cater for single classes or larger groups up to 60.
We also offer activities to smaller groups, uniformed groups and Home Educated children.
Do you offer on-site classroom facilities?
Nature's Reach is our fabulous central Visitor Centre which overlooks the meadow and lake. It is a beautifully designed, flexible space offering two classrooms that can be opened up into one large space. There is a large screen, storage for coats and bags and low wash basins.
Is there first aid on site?
Yes, all of our leaders are first aid trained.
Do you offer access for visitors with disabilities?
Yes. The visitor centre is suitable for wheelchair users with an accessible toilet. Many of the trails around the reserve are accessible to wheelchairs. Please contact us to discuss any specific requirements or to arrange a tour of the reserve facilities.
Do you cater for visitors with Special Educational Needs (SEN)?
Yes. Our sessions are very popular with Special Schools as our outdoor sessions often suit children with additional needs. The natural environment is beneficial for all learners and provides a calm atmosphere for learning. Some of our most positive feedback has come from leaders of SEND groups. Get in touch to discuss your requirements.
Anything else?
Primary per child:
Each session is designed to last approximately 2 hours - 10am - 12.pm and 12.30pm - 2.30pm. We are flexible over start and finish times.
Two sessions from our programme can be combined to make a full day.
A half day session is £4.00 and a full day is £6.50.
There is a minimum charge of £80 for half a day, and £130 for a full day.
Prices are per child and no charge is made for accompanying adults.
We also offer activity sessions for uniformed grouped and welcome Beavers, Cubs, Brownies and Rainbows.
How to find us.
By road:
The reserve is brown signposted off the A4041 (Newton Rd) North of Hamstead, take Hamstead Road (B4167), which is fifth on the left near the bottom of the hill by the church (look for the brown sign marked RSPB nature centre).
Reviews from Schools visiting RSPB Sandwell Valley!
Teacher Checklist 
 | Risk Assessments | ||
| Inspection Visits | ||
| Resource Packs | ||
| LOtC Quality Badge | ||
| AALA Licence | ||
| Institute of Outdoor Learning |
Wildlife Discoveries & Habitats at Sandwell Valley
So, you are thinking of a trip to fit in with your science topic: Habitats, the RSPB can help with that.
