Martin Mere Wetland Centre is home to over 100 species of rare and endangered ducks, geese, swans, flamingos and beavers. Open all year round, it offers pupils of all ages hands-on learning experiences led by experienced Teacher Explainers, and a safe environment in which to explore the wealth of Lancashire's wildlife.

Inquisitive Hawaiian Geese will nibble grain from the hand whilst you tour the world's wetlands through the carefully planned pathways. In contrast, watch, from the comfort and choice of ten lookout hides, internationally important numbers of ducks, geese and swans gathering in winter to form spectacular feeding flocks on seasonally flooded wetlands which enjoy SSSI (Site of Scientific Interest)/SPA (Special Protection Area) and Ramsar status.

Contrary to popular belief the season at Martin Mere doesn’t finish at the end of summer. The wonderful natural habitat is a hive of activity right through until October and November.

Autumn is a particularly good time for a school field trip to Martin Mere. They have recently built four new dipping ponds, enclosed in a giant cage so the birds can’t get in and eat the pond creatures, that stay alive right up to the onset of winter! Another advantage of an Autumn visit is that with fewer school parties present they can give your group their undivided attention! They also run extremely successful programmes on habitats, food chains and webs, and adaptations, right through to November.

Also in November, the geese and swans arrive from Iceland for the winter, and the whole place exudes a genuine buzz of excitement as they welcome back old friends with their new families among the famous Whooper swans. The migration programme ‘My Great Adventure’ includes a trip to the 75m long Swanlink Hide to watch a daily swan feed, plus games and science role-play activities.

Autumn is a great time for field trips to Martin Mere as it gives you, the teacher, the chance to get to know your new class in a relaxed and natural environment. A room for lunch and support you while you are here is all provided, and you will find staff very friendly, positive, approachable and knowledgeable.

There are days available during our schools’ Living History fortnight, which runs from 23rd September to 3rd October inclusive. Schools can bring a maximum of 40 children and choose either Celts and Romans, or Vikings. You will be sent plenty of information beforehand suggesting how to dress as a native of Mere Tun; all about the roundhouse village, and what authentic food to bring.

Martin Mere Wetland Centre caters for groups of all ages, from schools, colleges, scouts, brownies, cubs, and play-schemes. Visit www.wwt.org.uk/martinmere and click on ‘Schools’ to download the teacher information pack, details about their current education programmes, and to view other useful information.

Key information

• From Foundation to Key Stage 4
• Full Risk Assessment
• List of education programmes