Our Education Centre continues to have a positive impact on learning. In the past academic year our Education Team have delivered practical and engaging nature based sessions for more than 9,000 people.
During the 2024–25 academic year, 9,281 people took part in educational programmes to better connect them with the natural environment of Chichester Harbour. Our Education Team delivered inspiring outdoor experiences to a variety of age groups from nursery years to sixth form, designed with the curriculum and wellbeing in mind. All sessions enabled students to engage with nature, build confidence outdoors and develop a deeper understanding of this special environment.
A valuable resource for schools
Our Education Centre continues to provide high-quality, curriculum-linked learning outside the classroom. Over the past year, the team delivered 33,857 hours of engagement with young people, alongside 333 field trips and events.
Sessions are carefully designed to support learners across the curriculum, from the youngest children learning about nature to A level students studying Geography, Biology and Environmental Science.
As a result school visits in Chichester Harbour help enhance classroom learning with real-world experiences in a unique coastal environment.
Inspiring young learners of all ages
Primary school pupils made up the largest group of our visitors, accounting for 57% of all visits, followed by 28% from secondary schools and colleges. Early years learners represented 3%, while 12% of participants were adults and community learners.
Making outdoor learning accessible
A key priority for our Educational Team is ensuring that all young people can take part, regardless of background. In 2024–25, 16.8% of participants were supported through Pupil Premium funding, helping schools offer experiences to those who might otherwise miss out. In addition, 3,024 young people benefited from funded experiences, with 66 schools and community groups receiving fully or partially funded trips.
Working with schools and communities
While the majority of visitors came from nearby communities (45% from West Sussex and 40% from Hampshire) some visiting schools and groups travelled from surrounding areas including Surrey, East Sussex, Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire and London.
The Education Team supported 116 organisations this year, from schools and charities to community groups. As well as working with schools and teachers, other partnerships included organisations such as Home-Start Chichester, Dell Quay Sailing Club and Emsworth Sailing Club, as well as youth groups such as the Scouts and Guides.
Looking ahead
As demand for outdoor learning continues to grow, our Education Centre remains a trusted and valuable resource. We’re very proud of our role in helping young people connect with nature, support their studies and build memories in one of the UK’s most important landscapes.
Schools and groups interested in booking a visit for autumn 2026 or 2027, and further ahead, are encouraged to get in touch with the Education Team.
