Lulworth Outdoor Education Centre Dorset

Lulworth is well known for its stunning scenery and being the host of numerous iconic coastal sites such as Durdle Door, Stair Hole, Lulworth Cove and the Fossil Forest.

It is without a doubt, the best place in the UK to study coastal geography and geology. Mix in case studies for tourism & management, and Lulworth becomes perfect to study both human and physical geography.

Our younger groups can also learn about ancient history, participate in a fossil forager workshop, uncover a different world through rock-pooling, understand the delicate balance of our ecosystem for its wildlife, all whilst being set amongst an incredible backdrop of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.

Our service now offers an ever-growing adventure education provision. Among other activities, we provide ‘Geo-coasteering’ sessions where our specially trained instructors teach you about the changing coastline up close to where it is happening. For a multi-activity day there is also kayaking, bushcraft, team-building, archery, orienteering and mountain biking available.

Adventure activity centre South West
Water sports Dorset
Outdoor education South West
Lulworth Outdoor Education Centre Dorset

The Lulworth Education staff have unparalleled knowledge about the local coastline and have a great ability to inspire young minds as to how interesting and diverse the changing coastline can be.

Lulworth is easily accessed within a day trip from areas further afield making it a great choice for those with time and financial constraints. Many schools use the service as they know we can deliver their curriculum needs in a very concise manner, leaving them time to conduct specific activities themselves.

The team all have a background in outdoor education and pride ourselves on having a flexible approach, changing the format of the session at a moment’s notice.

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AALA

2018 winner for Learning Experience of the Year in the Dorset Tourism Awards

Sessions range from introductory talks through to more comprehensive full day tours and even multi-day activities.

A typical two hour session includes an introductory presentation and a ½ mile walk around the site catering to the topic requested.

A full day tour normally includes a trip to Durdle Door (2 mile walk over undulating terrain).

If you are interested in a multi-day activity programme then please contact us directly as we can cater for small groups with activities and accommodation.

Group sizes can be as small as a couple of people, and with enough notice we can cater for up to 160 students.

Our minimum charge is based on 16 students.

In-house produced resources are available to purchase beforehand or on arrival.

Our popular ‘Lulworth Rocks’ book is aimed at KS2 but is relevant for all ages. Class sets can be purchased at a discounted rate. Other materials such as statistical tourism notes, ID guides, maps, etc. are also available.

Teachers are encouraged to ask for as much background information prior to the session as applicable so we can provide the best educational experience possible.

Photography and filming is encouraged; however, any commercial filming must have permission from the Lulworth Estate beforehand.

On booking, we provide an up to date risk assessment (as guidance only). Teachers are advised to do their own site-specific risk assessment. Contact us beforehand and we can make a ranger available to show you around the area.

Trip guidelines are also provided to explain how the session will be managed in terms of ratios, discipline, etc.

Derek Billings

education@lulworth.com

01929 400155

Session prices are based ‘per child’ with a minimum charge for 16 students. The exception to this is for a classroom presentation where this is a set rate (max 45 students).

Prices are as follows:

Presentation only £65

Short Tour £5.25pp

Long Tour £7.50pp

All adults are free of charge and schools doing a session with us receive complimentary parking passes for the day.

Adventure education sessions have a complex pricing structure so please contact us directly to discuss.

Sturdy footwear is essential. Seasonal specific clothing is required, but due to the changeable environment it is recommended that students pack for all conditions.

All safety equipment for adventurous activities is provided, but there is a small amount of personal equipment that you will be made aware of when booking.

All staff are first aid trained but the school should also bring a first aid trained member of staff for transport to and from the site, and when not with the rangers (e.g. during a lunch break). There is also a more robust first aid station at the reception in the Visitor Centre.

For any serious injuries, there is a first responder located in the village.

Facilities in West Lulworth include:

Toilets (including disabled)

Gift shops

Café’s

Fossil shop

Outdoor learning area

Accessible paths and viewpoints

Our classroom can be used as a wet weather shelter as long as it isn’t in use by another group.

All staff have undertaken SEND training and have experience catering for students with Special Education Needs and Disabilities.

The site has disabled toilets, an off-road tramper (4wd mobility scooter) and accessible paths.

Open all year apart from Christmas day and New Year’s Day.

A normal working day is from 8:30 until 17:00 but we often work outside these hours and on weekends.

“We visited Lulworth Outdoors with our Year 9 class. The girls had the most incredible time and are still talking about it now. We chose coasteering as our activity. The girls gained valuable life skills. They had the opportunity to face their fear of heights and water in some cases, and overcome it. It was a tremendous lesson in confidence and team building, which is essential for teenagers nowadays. The instructors gave the girls a once in a lifetime opportunity. They were fun, patient and extremely encouraging. We would definitely recommend this to any school group.”

Tiferes High School 2018

“A fantastic trip, which was well organised. Very knowledgeable rangers. Great behaviour management. The children found all three rangers very engaging and felt comfortable answering and asking questions. Thank you very much!”

Holy Trinity Primary 2018

“Thank you very much for the warm welcome once again and to the Rangers for an outstanding talk and presentation. The children learnt such a lot and have enjoyed extending the learning back in the classroom. We look forward to coming again in the future.”

Minster CofE Primary School 2018