Explore, Learn & Connect on Cleeve Common

 

Cleeve Common is an outdoor classroom for everyone

There are lots of ways to explore, learn and connect with the Common through nature, farming, conservation, geology, history and wellbeing. Whether you're looking for a guided session, resources to support a self-led visit or simply inspiration for exploring independently, we work with schools, colleges, community groups, youth groups and other organisations to help make your visit meaningful and enjoyable.

Why learn on Cleeve Common?

Cleeve Common is more than a beautiful place to visit, it’s a living landscape full of opportunities to explore, question and learn. From wildlife and conservation to farming, geology and local history, the Common brings learning to life in a way that isn’t possible in the classroom. Being outdoors also gives groups the opportunity to develop confidence, curiosity and a deeper connection with nature and the place around them.

The benefits of learning on Cleeve Common:

  • Learn in a living landscape.

  • Learn through experience.

  • Connect with nature and each other.

  • Time outdoors can support wellbeing, reduce stress and help people feel more connected.

  • Outdoor environments can offer alternative, more flexible learning opportunities for children and young people with SEND who may find traditional classroom settings challenging.

What could a visit look like?

All sessions led by Cleeve Common Trust are designed to be 2 hours in length. Though we can work with you if different timings are required. The topics below offer a starting point for planning your visit. Each session can focus on one topic or a particular area of interest, with activities and content tailored to suit your group's age, interests and learning needs.

  • Farming, Conservation & Food Production

Discover how farming and conservation work together to care for Cleeve Common and explore where our food comes from. Explore livestock and grazing, sustainable land management, biodiversity and the relationship between farming, food production and the landscape.

  • Nature & Wildlife

Explore the wildlife, habitats and ecosystems that make Cleeve Common special. Investigate the plants, animals and habitats found across the Common, explore seasonal change and consider how conservation helps protect this important landscape.

  • Geology & Landscape

Explore the geology, landscape and natural processes that have shaped Cleeve Common. Discover how the limestone landscape was formed, look for clues to its ancient past and try a spot of fossil hunting (looking, not taking!). Explore how geology influences the habitats, land use and communities found here today.

  • History & Heritage

Discover the people, places and stories that have shaped Cleeve Common over time. Explore archaeology, historic features, farming traditions and changing patterns of land use, using the Common itself to uncover its past. Discover our Iron Age session, developed to link with the KS2 curriculum, and explore the evidence of life on the Common thousands of years ago.

  • Explore, Discover & Wellbeing

Use the Common as a place to explore, learn and connect with nature. Flexible sessions can be shaped around your group's interests, from map reading and creative learning to nature connection, outdoor wellbeing and developing confidence in the outdoors.

Learning opportunities for all

We welcome a wide range of groups to learn, explore and enjoy Cleeve Common, including:

  • Schools and colleges

  • Home education groups

  • Youth groups and uniformed organisations

  • Community and voluntary groups

  • Adult learning groups

  • Organisations supporting health and wellbeing

  • Other groups looking to explore the Common together

Every session can be adapted to suit the age, interests, abilities and needs of your group, helping everyone get the most out of their time on the Common.

Enquire now

Interested in bringing your group to Cleeve Common? Get in touch by email to find out more, discuss your ideas or arrange a visit.

The Common is open to the public for your enjoyment, but please remember that it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and an important part of our natural heritage. It is open access land (Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000), and as such you are permitted to bring groups to the Common independently, however, we ask that you please always let us know when you will be visiting.

Our rangers often like to welcome groups, and one will make sure they are available during your visit to assist if an emergency situation occurred. We can also let you know if there are other public events being run which may clash with your visit, or if livestock is roaming in the areas you plan to visit, so please keep in touch with us.

 
 
Image Credit Shara Spragg

Image Credit Shara Spragg