Interpretation Centre

The new purpose built Interpretation Centre at Stover has the following facilities for teachers and school groups:

• Classroom with seating and tables
• Whiteboard, flipchart and OHP
• Display space
• Fascinating interactive display explaining many aspects of the environment, geography and history of the park

The following equipment is available for use by school groups working with a Ranger by prior arrangement:

• TV and Video
• Microscope
• Pond Nets and Tubs
• Quandrats
• Pooters
• Magnifying Glasses
• Collecting Jars
• Pond life identification charts
• PH Meter
• Longworth Mammal Traps
• Moth Trap
• Rain Gauge
• Thermometer
• Maps - Access, Habitat, Outline, Woodland

The class room is only available during weekdays between October - Easter with the exception of half term holidays, Christmas/New Year period when the Interpretation Centre is open to the public. The Ranger staff will be able to advise on the availability on request.

Prices for the hire of the classroom section are:

If you would like to use these facilities please complete the online classroom booking form.

Access

• The Country Park is open 24 hours a day throughout the year.
• Parking is available for coaches and mini-buses.
• The Interpretation Centre and classroom is best suited to groups of 30 - 40 or less.
• There is a parking fee (currently 70p for 2 hours and £1.20 from sunrise to sunset). Also available - yearly parking passes.
• There are toilets, including facilities for the disabled.
• Many paths within the Country Park are surfaced and level, including the 2km. path around Stover Lake.
• Picnic areas are located close to the Interpretation Centre.

Supervision and safety

No special clothing is required. Consider clothing for the best and worst conditions you might face. Warm and waterproof clothing is normally recommended.

Stout shoes, boots or trainers are suitable. Wellingtons should be brought if groups plan to explore freshwater environments.

Food and drink, such as packed lunches, may be consumed in the classroom, by arrangement, if the weather is poor.

A minimum ratio of one adult to ten children is recommended; this may be greater for older students. Small group work may require an improved ratio.

Carry a map of the site. The boundaries of the Country Park are clearly defined on three sides, to the north, west and east but less so to the south.

Particular care should be taken in the supervision of groups near water hazards, including the lake.

Any special points of note will be posted at the visitor centre. Group leaders are recommended to see "Outdoor Education, Visits and Off-Site Activities", May 1999, produced by Devon County Council and distributed to all educational establishments.