SCHOOL VISITS

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The Natural Sciences Museum offers an exciting and educational experience for students of all ages. With a wide range of exhibits and hands-on activities, our museum provides a unique opportunity for young learners to explore the wonders of the natural world. Whether your class is studying natural history, rocks & fossils, geology, or biology, we have engaging displays and activities that complement the curriculum.

We aim to make your school visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here’s some useful information to help you plan your trip:

To book a school visit, please contact us in advance to ensure availability and to tailor your experience to the needs of your group. We can provide guidance on relevant exhibits and activities based on your class's curriculum or interests. For more information on booking, please reach out to our Team at education@nsm-uk.org

We offer coach parking for school groups, so you can easily drop off and pick up students without worrying about parking. The coach parking area is outside the museum entrance for your convenience but must be booked in advance to secure space.

For those arriving by public transport, the museum is well-served by bus and tram links. 

Nearby tram stops include: 

Malin Bridge Tram Stop (2 minute walk)

Hillsborough Tram Stop (5 minute walk) 

Both Blue and Yellow lines are accessible, and stations provide easy access to the museum, making it simple for schools using public transport to reach us.

Nearby bus stops include:

Holme Lane/Loxley New Road Stop (2 minute walk) 

81 and 82 buses call at the City Centre every 30 minutes 61 and 62 buses call at Stannington and Bradfield every hour. 

Nearby car parks include:

Malin Bridge Park and Ride Car Park  (2 minute walk) 

Park and ride is also available at Halfway, Middlewood, and Meadowhall.  

Towsure Car Park (2 minute walk)

• Educational Activities: We offer interactive learning experiences designed to engage students and deepen their understanding of natural history. From fossil-handling sessions to guided tours, our educational team can tailor the visit to your group’s interests and age group.
• Workshops and Talks: We provide a variety of workshops and talks led by our expert staff. These sessions cover a range of topics and can be customised to fit your class’s needs, making your visit even more engaging and informative. Options also include the LAB EXPERIENCE for students aged 12+.
• Lunch Facilities: Our Learning Room is the ideal place for school groups to eat lunch. You are welcome to bring your own packed lunches, or we can provide information on nearby cafes and eateries for your convenience.

The safety of your students is our top priority. We ensure that all activities and areas are monitored and safe. Our staff is on hand to assist you throughout the visit. Teachers are also responsible for supervising students at all times, and we recommend a ratio of at least 1 adult for every 10 students.

We welcome school groups of all sizes, and our exhibits are designed to cater to a wide range of ages, from primary school groups to A-level students. We can accommodate large groups by scheduling visits in manageable time-slots and providing specialised resources for different age groups.

We are committed to making the Natural Sciences Museum an inclusive and welcoming space for all visitors, including those with physical disabilities. However, access to the Museum Gallery and the Learning Room is via stairs. We understand this may present challenges for some visitors, and we are happy to assist with alternative arrangements wherever possible.

Additionally, we are fully committed to supporting students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). We strive to provide an enriching experience for all students and are happy to accommodate specific requirements to ensure your group can enjoy the museum to the fullest.

If you have any accessibility needs or specific requirements for your group, please let us know in advance, and we will do our utmost to provide suitable accommodations.

• Interactive Learning: Our hands-on exhibits allow students to engage directly with the materials they’re studying, fostering a deeper understanding of natural science concepts.
• Expert-Led Sessions: Our knowledgeable staff can guide your group through the museum, offering expert insights and making the visit both educational and inspiring.
• Inspiring Exhibits: From ancient fossils to modern animals, there is something to capture the imagination of every student, sparking their curiosity about the world around them.

We look forward to welcoming your school to the Natural Sciences Museum. To book a visit or find out more information, please contact our Team at education@nsm-uk.org. We are here to help you plan an unforgettable learning experience for your students.