Overview

Day 1: Arrival and Safari Adventure

Morning:
The adventure begins! Pupils and staff will board their coach bright and early, setting off on an exciting journey to the heart of the West Midlands. Arriving mid to late morning, there will be time to enjoy a bite to eat with a packed lunch from home to fuel their excitement before diving into the first activity of the trip.

Afternoon Activity: West Midlands Safari Park

Step into a world of wonder at the West Midlands Safari Park where students will have the chance to get up close to a diverse range of animals, including lions, giraffes, elephants, rhinos, and more, all housed in settings that replicate their natural habitats. Students will embark on a safari tour and participate in workshops on conservation and animal adaptations, tailored to their educational level:

• Key Stage 1: For younger learners, the Creature Feature session introduces them to smaller, friendly animals, sparking curiosity about different species and their care. Through the Discover Dinosaurs and Habitats sessions, they’ll embark on an exciting journey through time and nature, exploring everything from prehistoric creatures to the diverse environments that animals call home.
• Key Stage 2: At Key Stage 2, the learning gets deeper. Students will delve into Lifecycles, Minibeasts, and Who Eats Who in a fun, hands-on way that ties directly to their curriculum. With a Walking Safari, they’ll witness the behaviour of animals in real time, gaining insight into ecosystems, food chains, and the delicate balance of nature—all while having an unforgettable adventure.
• Key Stage 3: Key Stage 3 students will have the chance to explore Ecosystems and Us and Exploring Evolution, understanding how species interact and evolve within their environments. The African Walking Trail and other safari experiences offer real-world examples of adaptation, evolution, and the interconnectedness of all living things, providing the perfect backdrop for discussions on biodiversity and sustainability.
• Key Stage 4: Older students can challenge their understanding of both science and psychology with the Phobias Workshop, exploring the fascinating world of animal fear responses. The Conservation and WMSP sessions dive deep into pressing issues like endangered species and habitat preservation, encouraging students to think critically about the challenges facing our planet and how we can work to protect it for future generations.

Evening: Check-in at Accommodation and Dinner
After an inspiring afternoon, the group will head to their accommodation to check in and settle down for dinner. 

Day 2: Exploring Farm Life and Tropical Ecosystems

Morning Activity: National Forest Adventure Farm

The morning will be spent getting hands-on at the National Forest Adventure Farm, where pupils can roll up their sleeves and dive into the fascinating world of sustainable farming. Whether it’s feeding the animals, planting crops, or learning about food production, this immersive experience connects pupils to the origins of their food and the environment around them. Workshops are designed to captivate and challenge:

• Key Stage 1: Through playful activities and animal interactions, younger pupils will discover the role of farm animals in our daily lives and the importance of looking after the land.
• Key Stage 2: Discussions on the food chain will encourage pupils to think critically about the links between plants, animals, and humans, with a focus on sustainability.

Alternative Activity: Dudley Zoo – Exploring Ecosystems and Biomes

National Forest Adventure Farm is ideal for school trips up to Key Stage 2, offering hands-on experiences with farm animals and nature. For older students, Dudley Zoo & Castle provides a fantastic alternative.

Key Stage 3: Pupils will explore Dudley Zoo’s diverse ecosystems, learning about the roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers in various habitats. They will study animal adaptations and survival strategies, examining how species interact with their environments.

Key Stage 4: Students will analyze the impact of environmental changes on ecosystems and biodiversity, exploring conservation efforts and the role of zoos in preserving endangered species. They will discuss global environmental challenges such as habitat loss and climate change.

Lunch:
Lunch will be provided by the accommodation, giving everyone a chance to recharge before the afternoon’s tropical adventure.

Afternoon Activity: Stratford Butterfly Farm

From the countryside to the rainforest, the afternoon takes the group to Stratford Butterfly Farm, a haven of colour and life. Pupils will wander through lush tropical landscapes filled with free-flying butterflies, exotic plants, and intriguing insects. It’s a feast for the senses, paired with tailored learning experiences:

• Key Stage 1: Pupils will be enchanted by the butterfly life cycle, brought to life through storytelling and hands-on activities.
• Key Stage 2: Lessons in pollination and plant reproduction will encourage pupils to see butterflies as vital contributors to global ecosystems.
• Key Stage 3: Older pupils will tackle the challenges of climate change, learning how rising temperatures affect delicate ecosystems and the species that depend on them.
• Key Stage 4: Conservation and ecology take centre stage, with pupils discussing the importance of biodiversity and strategies to combat environmental threats.

Day 3: Dinosaur Encounters and Departure

Morning Activity: Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World

The final day begins with a roar at Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World. Pupils will journey through time, comparing life-sized dinosaur models to the animals they see today, gaining a deeper understanding of evolution and extinction. Tailored activities bring science to life for every age:

• Key Stage 1: Fun, interactive displays introduce the concept of extinction and highlight the role of animals in the balance of nature.
• Key Stage 2: Pupils will learn about adaptations, comparing the traits that helped dinosaurs thrive with those of today’s species.
• Key Stage 3: Discussions will explore the causes of extinction events and how past events shape our understanding of the natural world.
• Key Stage 4: Advanced sessions will focus on biodiversity and the importance of preventing future extinction events, encouraging pupils to think critically about their role in preserving the planet.

Lunch:
Lunch will be provided by the accommodation before the group prepares to head home.

Afternoon: Departure for School

As the coach journey home begins, the students leave with far more than just memories of a fun trip. They’ve seen ecosystems in action, explored biodiversity up close, and learned how conservation efforts make a real difference. These experiences bring classroom lessons to life, giving teachers plenty of opportunities to build on what the students have seen and learned. Whether it’s sparking new curiosity, inspiring thoughtful discussions, or kickstarting creative projects, this trip provides a foundation for deeper learning back at school – and a fresh perspective on the natural world.

This itinerary is just one example of how a school trip to the West Midlands can enhance your students’ learning. From hands-on animal encounters to thought-provoking lessons in sustainability and biodiversity, it provides a dynamic platform for understanding the natural world and the challenges of conservation.

The information in this itinerary was accurate at the time of writing. If you’re ready to plan a trip that connects real-world experiences with your curriculum, our team is here to help. Get in touch today to design a bespoke itinerary that aligns with your students’ educational needs and interests.