Education Destination School Trips
Residentials London & South East
Travel during the Autumn term and take advantage of off-peak accommodation and coach travel costs! Most of the hoteliers we work with are also more willing to consider short stays after the main holiday season. Typically, Autumn term trips to the Isle of Wight can be up to 20% cheaper than peak weeks in June/July - yet the weather is usually just as good! Ask us for a quote today and see what we can do for you.
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Biology of Animals
Our Island features many attractions suited to learning more about all kinds of animals. At the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary for example, KS1 students can learn about the features of donkeys and how they compare to ponies, whilst KS2 students can learn to condition score donkeys like a professional to determine which might need veterinary attention.
At Amazon World both KS1 and KS2 students can conduct an age-appropriate scientific enquiry using the diverse range of unusual creatures found here.
Over at Tapnell Farm Park KS2 students learn to classify and identify animals from their collections of farm as well as more exotic creatures.
Using their Birds of Prey, KS2 visitors to Robin Hill Country Park learn about body parts and functions of various eagles, hawks and owls. Key Stage 4 students can look at Biodiversity and Classification throughout the park, looking at all living things including animals found here.
On the way over the the Isle of Wight, or on the way home, Red Funnel Ferries offers the opportunity to look out for and identify mammals, birds and fish on the crossing.
Thinking outside the box slightly, head over to Dinosaur Isle with your KS2 group to consider how dinosaurs (they were animals after all!) had different characteristics and why. Then, identify dinosaur body parts used for support, protection and movement.
Biology of Evolution
Offering a glimpse into the past, Dinosaur Isle deals with species extinction at KS4 level, considering both abiotic and biotic factors in the demise of the dinosaurs.
In a slightly more entertaining way, Blackgang Chine's Restricted Area 5 with its impressive animatronic dinosaurs helps KS2 students better understand the specific creatures found on the Isle of Wight in Project Dino Coast!
Biology of Living Things and their Habitats
Dinosaur Expeditions affords KS1 and KS2 students the opportunity to look at Food Chains and Tooth Types through their impressive range of fossil exhibits and experience of teaching middle school age pupils. A KS3 resource is also available looking at Food Chains & Food Webs using some dinosaur types as perfect examples of apex predator.
Tapnell Farm Park helps KS2 ages understand Lifecycles of Animals and Birds including gestation periods.
On your ferry crossing, Red Funnel Ferries users can task their KS2 students with Species Identification, looking out for various marine creatures and bird life in the Solent and Southampton Water areas.
At Robin Hill Country Park choose from two KS2 plant species classification challenges - one for Key Stage 2 Lower and a slightly more in-depth version for Key Stage 2 Upper ages. KS2 students can also learn about parts of a plant by studying the various specimens found throughout the park.
IW Donkey Sanctuary challenges KS2 students to learn about what makes donkeys different from other animals, and what happens when donkeys cross-breed with other animals.
The habitats of dinosaurs are explored at Dinosaur Isle where the variety of habitats are explored, and how these habitats supported fossilisation.
Looking more specifically at trees and shrubs, The Model Village, Godshill invites KS1 and KS2 students to Identify Tree Species around their site, where there are literally hundreds of carefully manicured and bonsaied specimens to study at eye level.
Goodleaf Tree Climbing also offers an interactive activity inviting students to collect and compare leaf samples to identify commonly found tree species in the area.
The Isle of Wight offers a unique and inspiring setting for primary school team-building and bonding exercises. With its stunning beaches, rolling countryside, and engaging attractions, this picturesque island provides a perfect escape from the classroom.
Outdoor Activities: The Isle of Wight is a playground for outdoor adventures. From sandy beaches to rugged cliffs, there's something for everyone. Activities like beach sports, nature walks, and outdoor problem-solving challenges encourage teamwork, cooperation, and resilience.
Collaborative Learning: Our expertly designed trips combine fun and learning. Explore historic sites, museums, and wildlife sanctuaries together. These experiences foster curiosity, communication, and a shared sense of purpose.
Character Development: Spending time together in a new environment helps students develop essential life skills. They'll learn to work as a team, overcome challenges, and build lasting friendships.
Memorable Experiences: The Isle of Wight offers a variety of unforgettable experiences. From visiting Osborne House to exploring the Needles, your students will create lasting memories that will inspire and motivate them.
Education Destination's Isle of Wight trips offer a unique and enriching experience for primary school students. Our experienced team will ensure that your group has a safe, fun, and educational adventure.
Human Geography: 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.
Physical Geography: 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.
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.
Fieldstudies: 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.
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.
Physics of Ships and Boats
The learning begins as soon as you leave the mainland. Travel with Red Funnel Ferries between Southampton and the Isle of Wight and set your KS2 age groups to work on their excellent Water / Air Resistance and Friction study activity as they relate to ferry operations. KS3 groups can look at Balance, Motion, Speed, Distance and Time, Pressure, Floating and Sinking as well as Vessel Motion including Stopping and Turning - a great way to use otherwise dead time during the crossing once the initial excitement subsides. Bringing older students? KS4 are catered for with activities around Acting Forces, Speed and Acceleration to keep them occupied and off their phones.
Physics of Steam Trains
At the Isle of Wight Steam Railway KS2 and KS3 students can learn about Forces and Motion, Friction, Traction, Distance and Time, simply by understanding how the trains themselves work. There's opportunities to get up close to steam engines in the workshops and exhibition halls as well as observing them running trackside before taking a ride. KS4 students can learn about Kinetic and Potential Energy, Displacement, Velocity and Acceleration as well as Energy Transference.
Physics of Slides and Toboggans
At Robin Hill Country Park KS2 students can investigate Motion & Force through interactions with birds of prey, model boats and giant bumpy slides. KS3 ages apply the same topics to some of the park's thrill rides such as the Pirate Ship and Zip Wires. KS4 students utilise the park's unique hillside toboggan ride to acceleration calculations!
Physics of Theme Park Rides
Across the Island at Blackgang Chine Theme Park, KS2 students of all abilities work scientifically at the Waterforce boat slide ride where they consider how different variables affect performance of the boats.
Physics of Self-Sufficiency
Meanwhile, at Tapnell Farm Park, KS4 students undertake a self-sufficiency investigation at this off-grid attraction, reviewing various facets of its bore holes, biomass boilers, solar panels and anaerobic digester. Students can study these environmentally sustainable features in real life. Younger year groups are able to conduct a force investigation using the park's pedal go-karts!
Physics of Ropes and Pulleys
Want to teach Ropes and Pulleys in an enlightening way? Bring your student cohort along to Goodleaf Tree Climbing for practical examples and expert instruction as the kids make their way up a huge oak tree under their own steam.
Chemistry of Dinosaur Fossils
Dinosaur Isle, a purpose-built facility staffed by experienced paleontologists, offers KS2 students an understanding of fossils in their "Clues from the Past" resource with variations for age and ability. KS3 students look at Earth & Atmosphere through the composition of earth and the processes of change, evidenced through the lifecycle of fossils in their extensive collection.
Chemistry of Steam Power
At IW Steam Railway, KS2 students get to investigate the properties and changes of minerals through the coal-powered generation of steam for traction. KS3 students delve a little deeper into States of Matter as the concept of particle kinetics is introduced with this real-world example in front of their own eyes.
Chemistry of Everyday Materials
At Red Funnel Ferries there's a handy KS1 resource to keep youngsters busy on their ferry crossing as they look out for Everyday Materials in use across the ships.
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.
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.
An ever-popular classroom topic which never fails to fascinate young minds. The Isle of Wight features some of Europe's best dinosaur fossil grounds where your students can let their imaginations run wild!
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.
Geology: 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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: 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bushcraft is a set of skills that can help you survive in the wilderness. It includes things like finding food and water, building shelter, and making fire. Bushcraft can be a lot of fun, and it's also a great way to learn about nature.
For primary school children, bushcraft can be a great way to learn about the outdoors and how to survive in the wilderness. It can also be a lot of fun.
The Isle of Wight is home to many fascinating and innovative companies who can impart real-life practical examples of the use of design and technology on visiting groups. From electronic products design and manufacture, through the use of resistant materials, to systems and control technologies and of course large and world-famous marine and renewables industries.
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.
Physical education (PE) is an important part of a primary school child's education. It helps them develop their physical skills, such as running, jumping, and throwing. It also helps them learn how to work together as a team and how to be physically active for life.
The Isle of Wight, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history, offers a unique and inspiring setting for primary school residential visits. For students passionate about the arts, this island paradise provides a wealth of opportunities for creative exploration and development.
Immerse Yourself in Nature's Beauty: The Isle of Wight's picturesque landscapes, from sandy beaches to rolling hills, offer endless inspiration for young artists. Students can sketch the dramatic cliffs, paint the vibrant sunsets, or capture the beauty of the island's flora and fauna. The island's natural beauty provides a soothing and inspiring backdrop for artistic expression.
Explore Inspiring Cultural Venues: The Isle of Wight boasts a thriving arts scene, with a variety of galleries, museums, and theaters. Students can visit the Quay Arts Centre, a vibrant hub for contemporary art, or explore the Isle of Wight Museum to learn about the island's history and heritage. These cultural venues offer opportunities for hands-on activities, workshops, and performances that can spark creativity and ignite a passion for the arts.
Discover the Island's Literary Heritage: The Isle of Wight has a rich literary heritage, with famous authors like Alfred Tennyson and Virginia Woolf having lived and worked on the island. Students can visit literary landmarks, explore gardens inspired by famous poets, or attend literary festivals and workshops. These experiences can inspire young writers and poets to develop their own creative voices.
A Creative Community: The Isle of Wight is home to a thriving community of artists and craftspeople. Students can interact with local artisans, learn about their techniques, and even participate in workshops. This exposure to the creative process can foster a love of art and inspire students to develop their own artistic skills.
A Memorable Experience: A residential visit to the Isle of Wight offers a unique and unforgettable experience for young artists. By immersing themselves in the island's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and creative community, students can develop their artistic skills, broaden their horizons, and create lasting memories.
With one of the most diverse ranges of outdoor physical, social and team building activities on offer in the UK, the Isle of Wight can help develop positive relationships amongst peer groups and support youngsters in making their own choices.
One of the most common questions asked by PSHE teachers is how to structure a trip around the topic of Living in the wider world . Our answer is to bombard the students with positive learning experiences from the moment they board the coach - make every second of the trip count towards their personal development, with games, bonding and team-building experiences, outlets for fun and enjoyment, brand new interactions with people / places or animals, plus some traditional learning too.
Citizenship is about being a good member of your community. It is about working together with others to make your community a better place. Citizens have rights and responsibilities. They have the right to live in a safe and clean environment, to have access to education and healthcare, and to express their opinions freely. They also have the responsibility to obey the law, to pay their taxes, and to help others in need.
Our venues offer a wide range of compelling stimulus matter for English comprehension, writing and reading tasks. From steam trains to dinosaurs, tigers to space rockets, myths and legends, The Island Classroom has it all. A range of on-site activities complimented by post-visit planned lessons to compound learning.
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. 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
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 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.
Risk Assessments
Inspection Visits Free Places for Teachers Resource Packs
LOtC Quality Badge
AALA Licence
Education Destination are extending their popular service to cover Dorset, home of the stunning Jurassic Coast.
With its sandy beaches and lengthy list of exciting activities, the journey begins with a ferry crossing from Portsmouth or Southampton.
Teachers interested in this Education Destination trip also viewed the learning experiences below.
We are bursting with 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!