Nature-based learning at Wilder Doddington
We believe that everyone, young and old, should have the opportunity to discover and connect with nature. The closer we get to nature, the happier we are, the more worthwhile life seems, and the more we are willing to take action to help our wildlife and the environment.
Wilder Doddington is packed with a huge diversity of habitats across its 1900 acres and a range of livestock including Lincoln Red cattle, Mangalitza pigs and Exmoor ponies.
Our dream is for every child to connect with nature throughout their education.
Wilder Doddington offers a range of visits tailored to each school or group’s particular needs. Our primary programme seeks to inspire and create awe, delivering learning and at the same time building confidence and self-esteem.
Secondary programmes provide a greater degree of learning support, making full use of the resources at Wilder Doddington including its skilled team and partners.
We will offer your students the opportunity to benefit from a connection to nature, create a sense of awe and wonder and bring the national curriculum alive through exploring Wilder Doddington’s magnificent landscape and wide range of wildlife.
Our school trips help to build confidence, skills and understanding of the natural world and are tailored to meet your requirements.
All sessions are adapted to fit with the age and abilities of the group as well as linking to the school’s own area of study and the curriculum.
Take a look at our Primary Pack for more information, including session details and example timetable.
Our Secondary Wild Learning programmes provide greater in-depth study, particularly those targeted at A-Level courses. These make full use of Wilder Doddington’s wide range of physical resources and our skilled team of experts.
We deliver courses tailored to your specification for Biology and Geography students studying A Level (or equivalent). Our courses are designed to make the most of the landscape we have at Wilder Doddington and the expertise within our team. Details of specific sessions can be found in our learning pack.
These can be tailored to the curriculum: particularly focussed on biodiversity, conservation, ecology, understanding the landscape, as well as opportunities to support students personal development and nature connection.
Take a look at our Secondary Pack for more information, including GCSE & A-Level session details.
Wilder Doddington provides a unique opportunity to study a flagship rewilding project – both in terms of the ecological processes but also the social and economic aspects and climate elements such as carbon capture and adaptation.
Please contact us for further information about Further and Higher Education opportunities, from one off visits to research projects.
The cost for group visits to Wilder Doddington are dependent on group size and level of study.
EYFS & Primary (1 class – up to 30 pupils) – £350
EYFS & Primary (2 classes – up to 60 pupils ) – £500
KS3, 4 & 5 Enrichment visits (up to 30 pupils) – £350
A Level Academic (up to 30 pupils) – £42 per student (min. 12)
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A LEVEL GROUPS – FUNDED OPPORTUNITY
We currently have limited funding available for A Level groups to visit Wilder Doddington.
The funding covers the cost of a visit for 1 class up to 30 students but does not cover transport to and from Doddington.
Trips must take place before the end of April 2026 or between September and December 2026.
If you would like to take advantage of this funding for a curriculum-based visit we are allocating on a first come, first served basis.
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When to visit
We welcome schools at any time of the year. Some programmes are only seasonally available. Our learning team will work with you to design your day, and we are happy to advise on the optimal time of year to ensure that you get the most from your visit.
How long is the visit?
Primary school visits are usually 10am to 2.30pm. Secondary school visits are usually 9.30am to 4pm. Your day will be tailored to your school and students’ needs.
How many children can we bring?
We recommend that single class visits (of approximately 30 children) work best. However, if you want to bring more than one class at the same time, please talk to the learning team.
Accessibility
Wilder Doddington aims to make our learning facilities and activities as accessible as possible. When developing your school trip, we will be able to discuss individual school and student needs.
What to wear
When visiting Wilder Doddington ALL participants should wear clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty.
In summer – long trousers, t-shirt, trainers / walking shoes and sun hat.
During winter – long trousers, waterproof or splash suit, wellington boots or walking boots, hat, gloves and scarf.
To find out more information and to book your visit, please get in touch:
Provides the perfect base for a day of exploration and learning.
A beautiful woodland setting for a holistic approach to learning.
Our new energy efficient Wild House Learning Centre. Find out more.
Our learning delivery team is full of experience with team members having worked previously in outdoor learning, the heritage and culture service, food production, academic research and lecturing, community development and engagement, wildlife conservation and reserve management.
