RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve

What makes us a great choice for education?

Our sessions are linked to the Curriculum for Excellence and take place in our wonderful haven for nature.  

RSPB Lochwinnoch is the perfect setting for your class to explore and investigate our abundant wildlife and variety of habitats. We have a pond dipping area, visitor centre and viewing tower with telescopes to discover the stunning views over the marsh and loch.  

Visiting teachers are invited to subscribe to our e-newsletter which contains useful projects and teacher blogs to support continued work outside the classroom.

Accreditation and Awards

We have the LOtC Quality Badge.

What is typically included on our school trips?

We offer curriculum linked science and geography programmes from early and first level through to advanced highers.

See further details of our sessions on our website. 

Group Sizes Catered For

Our sessions are aimed at groups of 30 children. If your group is larger or you have more than one group, then please contact us for more information. 

Materials, Resources & Information Provided

We use our RSPB age appropriate resources and equipment to support our curriculum linked sessions. See the session outlines on our website. 

We also have a wealth of teacher resources and ideas to continue your learning journey with us. You will find more information on our website.

Photography, Filming & Audio Restrictions

Schools are welcome to take photographs of their own children.

Risk Assessment Details

A generic risk assessment is available on the website.

A Covid-19 and site-specific risk assessment will be shared nearer the time of the booking.

Education Officer Information

Please contact our Learning Officer using the email above.

Pricing Information

Full details of pricing can be found on our website.

Clothing Requirements

Although we have a classroom, our sessions are held outdoors so we recommend students are dressed appropriately for the weather. This may be waterproof boots and raincoats, or it may be sunhats and sunblock cream.

First Aid Information

RSPB Learning staff are first aid trained to Appointed Persons status and will carry a basic first aid kit.  

Available Facilities

We suggest children please bring a packed lunch with them and extra drinks. We provide a location to store lunchboxes and for the children to eat. For more information, see our website.

Accessibility & Disabled Facilities

Accessible toilets are available. Please make us aware of any special needs at the time of booking so we can discuss necessary arrangements or adaptations to our sessions.  

Opening Hours & Information

Schools sessions are offered on weekdays during term time.  (Please Note our opening times are from August 2021)

Testimonials

“Mesmerizing, breathtaking, amazing and awesome’ are just some of the ways local schools have described their trip to your reserve.

"Outstanding introduction to my new topic - the children were immersed in their learning and I will be able to draw on their experiences for a series of lessons.”

“Amazing as always, well trained staff, excellent facilities and fabulous setting with educational activities.”