The heathland experience

Choose a Ranger-led session

Please select... AutumnConservation tasksEnvironmental artFeathery funGreener gardensMammalsMega minibeastsOrienteeringOutreach educationRecreationTeacher sessionThe heathland experienceTreemendous treesWater studiesWoodland walkWoodland wisdom

Britain has in important role to play as we have 20% of all heathland in Europe and in Dorset we have this great habitat right on our doorstep.

There are small areas of heathland at Moors Valley but better heathland sites can be found in Verwood, Ferndown and Corfe Mullen. If you are based in one of these towns we can plan a heathland day on a site near you.
Choose four activities from the options below.

Purple Plants
A look at the unique plants that make heathland and then make a heathland bookmark using all the different plants.

Reptiles
One of the reasons that heathland is so important is because it provides a home for reptiles which thrive in the dry, sandly conditions found on the heath. Find out about the different reptiles and maybe meet a lizard.

Mega Minibeasts
A minibeast hunt specially for the heathland.

Terrible Trees
In many areas trees are treemendous but they can be the death of heathland, by shading out the heather plants. Some practical work to help remove some invading trees from the heathland using small saws.

Cows and Conservation
To reduce those terrible trees regrowing and to combat invasive plants we graze many sites with livestock; cattle and ponies. Children will learn the benefits of traditional grazing methods by playing a fun and interactive game.

Time:2 hours
Maximum group size: 16
Key stage: 1-3
Cost: £64.00 (£4 per child), or £16.00 (£1 per child) for East Dorset District school children