Type: School Trip Destinations

WEBSITE LINK: http://www.bisonfarm.co.uk

E-MAIL: info@bisonfarm.co.uk

CONTACT: 01747 830263

School Trip & Group Educational Visit Information

Venue Introduction

Bison once roamed the plains in numbers so great the early explorers could not count them. They were variously described as "numbers-numberless," "the country was one robe," and "the plains were black and appeared as if in motion."

Bison have been called the most important wild animals in the development of North America. The centre of life for the Plains Indians, providing them with food, clothing, shelter and much of their culture. Bison also sustained the lives of the explorers and settlers going west.  By the late 1800's, Bison were dangerously close to extinction. Through the efforts of early conservationists and ranchers who knew the value of Bison, they are no longer an endangered species and are thriving across North America.

Why is this venue great for School Trips and Educational Visits?

We have been welcoming schools since we opened to the public in 1994 and we take the group on a tractor & trailer ride in amongst the bison and elk when the children can feel very close to them and smell their breath!

• At the beginning of the visit a small explanatory talk is given to explain about the history and near extinction of bison and their importance to the Native Americans for their way of life and spiritual beliefs.
• As well as the bison there are to be seen, elk, rhea, raccoons, prairie dogs, chipmunks, rare breed sheep & pigs and poultry.
• The farm trail takes you past the bison and elk and rheas and the other animals are nearer the farm yard. 
• There are 30 acres of old oak woodlands containing woodland gardens, stream gardens and peaceful clearings.
• The gallery contains much information on the history of bison and how they populated the North American continent.
• The gallery also have a collection of Native American art and artefacts.
•  Large groups can be divided up so that some go on the trailer ride while the others explore the woods and  play in the play area.

What size groups do they cater for?

25 max

What can they provide you with to support you?

Work sheets are available on request.

How do you book a risk assessment?

Teachers and group leaders are welcome to pre-arrange risk assessments.

What are the contact details for their education officer?

There is no specific education officer please call number above.

Is specific clothing required?

Comfortable shoes and warm  clothing are recommended in cold weather with Wellington boots and waterproof clothing if wet.

Do you have first aid on site?

Qualified nurse on site and quiet room available.

What facilities do they have for school trips and educational visits?

• We can provide an indoor barn area for groups .
• Outside Picnic areas available.
• BBQs can be arranged or groups can bring their own picnics.
• Large tepee in woodland clearing for groups, ideal for camping, holding class talks and work sessions.
• A small tea shop offers cream tea, light snacks with bison burgers and soup being very popular.
• The gallery has many items for sale.

Are there disabled facilities?

Ramp access and toilets available.

Featured Listing: No

Age of Children / Pupils:

• Pre-school
• 5 – 7 years
• 8 – 10 years
• 11 – 13 years
• 14 – 16 years
• College
• University

Region:

• South West England

Type of visit:

• Arts & Galleries
• Farms & Zoos
• Green Awareness & Environment Centres
• Outdoor Education
• Picnic Areas
• Themed Attractions
• Wildlife and Nature

Curriculum topics:

• Art and Design
• Citizenship
• Design and Technology
• English
• Geography
• History
• PE
• Science

Months Open:

• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October

Disabled Facilities: Yes