Frequently asked questions
Who runs the Centre? (top)
The Centre is funded by Hampshire County Council and Portsmouth city authority. The Centre supports schools throughout Hampshire.
What facilities are there? (top)
The Centre is located in the grounds of Sparsholt College. There is a large double classroom with wheelchair access, toilet facilities and picnic area. The Centre is staffed by fully qualified, experienced teachers. Teaching takes place within the college estate which covers 143 hectares and includes ponds, woodlands, hedgerows, meadows and a working farm with deer, sheep, cows and pigs. A wide range of specialist field study equipment is available and a resource centre and information technology suite with automatic weather station, video microscopy and internet links.
What programmes are on offer? (top)
You may choose from our range of programmes that have been developed at the Centre or design your own day. The programmes support Environmental and Sustainable Education across the National Curriculum, with particular strengths in science and geography. We are keen to work with schools in developing new programmes specific to their needs.
What does the Centre provide? (top)
All teaching materials, worksheets, clipboards, pencils and other equipment are provided. We have tea and coffee making facilities available for staff at lunch times.
When can I visit? (top)
We are open all year round during term time. We offer warm, safe facilities whatever the weather. The Centre is extremely busy during the spring and summer terms (March - November), so why not plan a visit in autumn? Several programmes have been designed specifically for the autumn and winter period, whatever the weather!
How many children can I bring? (top)
The Centre can cater for a maximum of 50 pupils per day. A maximum group size is given for each of our programmes. Groups of more than 20 pupils must book on a day when there are two members of Sparsholt teaching staff available.
How much does it cost? (top)
Hampshire and Portsmouth authorities support visits by thier maintained schools by subsidising visits to the Centre. Some programmes have a charge for consumables. These are identified at the time of booking. Southampton Schools may use the facility however, Southampton City Authority are no longer funding the visits. This means that Southampton Schools must now pay for visits - see our charging policy for more information.
How many adults should I bring? (top)
This depends on the age of the pupils. The minimum staffing ratio requirements are 1:8 adults to children for pupils under 8 years of age, and 1:12 for all other groups operating at 'hazardous' sites. If the group is under 14 years of age then two adults must be present. We do recommend higher staffing ratios than this because most of our activities work best with small groups.
How do I book a visit? (top)
Initially by telephone or email. We will reserve days for you and send you a booking confirmation, which should be signed and returned to us as soon as possible. Our receipt of the completed booking form is confirmation of your booking.
Bookings should be made at least a term in advance, though early booking, particularly for the summer term, is recommended. You can book up to one year in advance. We strongly recommend a pre-visit when you have booked your day with us, so that you can find out more about our Centre and how your chosen programme will fit into work back at school.
What do I need to bring? (top)
A Teacher's Guide (A5 green leaflet) is sent to schools with the booking confirmation letter. This contains important imformation to help you prepare your group for the visit including what to bring on the day. The essential items include:
- A copy of your attendance list giving details of teams and their leaders
- Packed lunch and snack
- Appropriate clothing (warm clothes, hats and gloves in winter; sunhats and sun screen in summer - layers work best)
- Wellies or old boots/shoes in a plastic bag
- Waterproof jacket (the centre has a limited supply of jackets and wellies to loan)
- Portable first aid kit
How do we get there? (top)
We are located approximately four miles north-west of Winchester, just off the Stockbridge to Winchester road (B3049) signposted 'Sparsholt College'. On arrival, make your way to the coach park where a member of our staff will meet you and guide you to the Centre. Directions are available.
