The Trentham Estate

What We Offer Visiting Schools:

Our range of education programmes offers flexible half-day options, either as Self-Led or Ranger-Led sessions.

Visiting groups can also enjoy wider access to the estate, which provides amazing opportunities for site enrichment and play. With our extensive horticultural gardens, Heritage building and landscape, Biodiverse natural habitats (including the only licensed Beaver enclosure in Staffordshire) and an exciting range of play facilities. There is something for everyone and always more to explore here at Trentham.

Why Choose Us for an Educational Visit:

Our award-winning gardens, SSSI woodlands and Capability Brown landscape and Lake provide the perfect backdrop for hands-on, curriculum-linked activities that inspire curiosity and creativity. We combine experiential learning with fun, ensuring every visit is memorable. With expert-led programmes, safe facilities and engaging resources, Trentham offers an unrivalled opportunity for young minds to learn and explore outside the classroom. As an estate, we provide a rich variety of learning opportunities at an easy-to-reach location just off the A34 and M6 in North Staffordshire.

Subjects and Topics Covered:

Much of our current educational programmes are based around natural sciences and geography, but with links to a wider cross-curricular approach.

We offer half-day (90-minute) educational programmes, either as a self-led or ranger-led option.

Topics covered: 

• Flowers and pollination
• Plants and growth
• Life and food chains
• Habitats and adaptations
• Beavers and rewilding
• Natural art

Accreditation and Awards:

Learning Outside the Classroom Badge Holder – pending application/approval

Age Ranges Catered For:

Our education programmes are currently designed and aimed at the Primary Market (KS1 and KS2), but we have successfully hosted other age groups, including EYFS, KS3, KS4 and FE and HE. As many of our educational programmes can be tailored to specific age groups, learners’ needs and objectives. We are also planning on launching additional education programmes for different age groups in the future. Customized sessions and activities can be provided upon request.

Group Sizes Catered For:

We offer a variety of educational facilities on site, including a ranger station ideal for small groups, an education tipi that accommodates up to two standard classes, and a large, sheltered space for bigger gatherings. In previous years, we’ve successfully hosted entire year groups and even whole schools, and we’re happy to cater for large cohorts on request.

Itineraries, Resources, and Workshops:

Session plans and itineraries are available for all sessions and activities upon request

Risk Assessment:

At Trentham, safety is our top priority. We have a large staff team and 24/7 on-site security to ensure a safe environment for all visitors. A comprehensive risk assessment is in place, regularly reviewed and updated, and available to visiting groups on request. We can also provide supporting documents such as risk assessment guidance and FAQs.

We welcome pre-visits for trip leaders and organisers, giving you the opportunity to discuss your plans, explore the site, and complete your own risk assessment process.

Education Department Information:

Duncan Coleman (Wildlife Ranger & Education Lead)

20 + years’ experience within the outdoor education sector
Worked for a range of wildlife trusts, charitable organisations and other environmental education providers across the UK and abroad
Accredited Forest School Leader
Graduate of Nottingham Trent University – Conservation and countryside management
AET – Award in Education and Training

Pricing Information:

Educational Programmes:

Self-led programmes:
(Covers a max of two programmes in a day)
Cost Per Student: £6
Minimum: No minimum group size/charge
Maximum: 60 students (two school classes)*
4-8 years – one adult to six children
9-12 years – one adult to eight children

Ranger-led Programmes:
(Covers the delivery of one programme)
Cost Per Student: £8
Minimum: 8 students – smaller groups can attend be will be charged at this minimum rate
Max 60 students (two school classes)*
4-8 years – one adult to six children
9-12 years – one adult to eight children
* Larger groups can potentially be accommodated with prior arrangement and notice

Facilities:

Ranger station, large tipi, and additional sheltered spaces available for group use. Secure bag storage is also provided.

Accessibility and Disabled Facilities:

Trentham prides itself on being accessible to all. The gardens are fully wheelchair-friendly, and wheelchairs are available on site for visitor use. We are always happy to discuss specific visitor or learner needs and accessibility requirements prior to a visit.

Opening Hours:

Opening hours vary per season. Currently 9am – 7pm, last entry 6pm.

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