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Formby Sand Dunes Field Trips for Schools

Provided by NatureLab (External Provider)

KS2, GCSE and A level field trips packed full of practical scientific investigation

GCSE and A level: No more counting daisies on the school field! We introduce your students to ecological sampling techniques, sand dune succession and the specialist species that thrive on sand dunes, all while enjoying this stunning location. Students are guided through carrying out hands on investigations in nature, designed to bring your ecology topic to life and consolidate classroom learning through first hand experience KS2: Our full day trips introduce your pupils to the varied plant and insect species found at Formby, and the incredible conservation work taking place to protect them. Pupils are guided through a series of hands on activities, designed to promote curiosity and exploration of the natural world.

Contact Provider
Venue Name: National Trust Formby: Lifeboat Road Car Park
Operating Periods:
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Venue:
Formby
Merseyside
L37 2EB
United Kingdom
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Directions

Opening Times:
Monday
09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday
09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday
09:00 - 17:00
Thursday
09:00 - 17:00
Friday
09:00 - 17:00
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed
Available at 1 venue.
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GCSE and A level activities

Activities will be tailored in collaboration with you. Depending on your individual focus, this can include a selection of the following:

• Random sampling and belt transects to determine distribution and abundance of plant species
• Measurement of abiotic factors
• Calculation of species population
• Discussion of species adaptations, habitats and conservation management
• Observation of the stages of sand dune succession - A level only
• Measurement of biodiversity - A level only

Primary school activities

Activities will be tailored in collaboration with you. Depending on your individual focus, this can include a selection of the following:

• Identifying and surveying minibeasts, including using insect pooters
• Plant surveys on the dunes
• Plant identification and comparing species between habitats
• Tree identification, sketching and taking rubbings
• Measuring the age and height of trees
• Habitat walks to discuss species adaptations and conservation

Transport

Coach and minibus parking is available at Lifeboat road car park, which is owned by the National Trust. There is a parking fee of £21.50 for minibuses or £80 for coaches, payable directly to the National Trust. National Trust education group access pass holders are exempt from these parking charges. Please contact us for more details.

Food and Catering

Formby sand dunes are owned by the National Trust. We operate under a licence which allows us to provide guided field trips at this location. There is a picnic area available for eating pack lunches and toilets at the car park. Free time for pupils to enjoy Formby beach can be included in the day, depending on your preference.

Gallery

Learning Outcomes and Curriculum Links

A level curriculum links
For A level groups, this trip is designed to complement curriculum learning and meet practical requirements for: AQA Biology (required practical 12), Edexcel Biology A (core practical 10), Edexcel Biology B (core practical 15), Equqas Biology (continuity of life 1), OCR Biology (PAG 3)
GCSE curriculum links
For GCSE groups, this trip is designed to complement curriculum learning and meet practical requirements for: AQA Biology (required practical 9), AQA combined science (required practical 7), Edexcel Biology (core practical 9.5), Edexcel combined science (biology core practical 9.5), Equqas Biology (SP 6.3), Eduqas combined science (BSP 6.5), OCR Biology (PAG 3), OCR combined science (PAG B2)
Primary school curriculum links
For KS2 groups, links are made to science topics including: Living things and their habitats, Animals including humans, Plants. Let us know what topic you will be covering at the time of your trip and we will be happy to tailor the day to your focus.

Cost

KS2: £9 per pupil with a minimum total cost of £180.​ Free places for all accompanying adults.

GCSE and A level: £11 per student with a minimum total cost of £220.​ Free places for all accompanying adults.

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or all accompanying adults.

Checklist

Capacity and Group Sizes
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Up to 35 students per trip. For larger groups, we are more than happy to accommodate your group over multiple dates.
Available Regions
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Anywhere in England

Available Facilities
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  • On-Site Parking
  • Toilets

Formby sand dunes are owned by the National Trust. We operate under a licence which allows us to provide guided field trips at this location. There is a picnic area available for eating pack lunches and toilets at the car park. Free time for pupils to enjoy Formby beach can be included in the day, depending on your preference.

Read Frequent Asked Questions (FAQs)

About This Provider (NatureLab)

NatureLab science and nature workshops - butterfly wings on grass
Head Office: NatureLab, home, PR5

NatureLab provides hands on science and nature workshops for primary schools, high schools and colleges, designed to bring the science curriculum to life and inspire curiosity about the natural world. Each workshop is fully led by an experienced instructor, with all equipment, supporting resources and risk assessments provided. I am the founder of NatureLab, working with schools to impart my passion for the natural world and its protection. I am a qualified primary school teacher with experience in KS1 and KS2. I have also worked as a field studies instructor and group leader, teaching biology and geography fieldwork to school groups in every year group from KS2 to A level, in addition to a number of volunteer roles with children. I have a degree in animal behaviour and training, and wildlife conservation and research experience in South Africa. Throughout my career so far I have worked to give children experiences they would not otherwise have, and inspire a love for nature.

Contact NatureLab (External Provider) to book this Trip.
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