Education & Engagement

The future of our rivers depends on the knowledge and passion of the next generation. Through engaging, hands-on education, we aim to spark curiosity, build confidence, and empower young people to become champions for river conservation.

Connecting Young People to Rivers

Practical, experience-led environmental education #Weareducating

At Wear Rivers Trust, we are dedicated to educating and inspiring the future generation of river conservationists: that’s why our dedicated team of skilled educators deliver quality outreach, both inside and outside of the classroom.

We engage young people through unique hands-on learning experiences, by taking them to the river… or taking the river to them! Over the last decade, we have delivered to thousands of children across the Wear catchment.

In May 2024, the high standard of our offer was acknowledged, when we achieved the nationally recognised ‘Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge.’

Explore Our Education Sites

Click the location pins to explore our sites.

Funded Outreach

We deliver a number of fully funded outreach programmes that increase access to high-quality environmental education across the catchment. Learn more about current projects, eligibility, and how to get involved.

Paid Outreach

We offer a range of paid outreach opportunities that provide schools and groups with high-quality, curriculum-aligned environmental learning. Explore our activities, pricing, and how to book your session.

Education Resources

Our educational resources support our ongoing work, with activities for use at home, resources for teaching and visits, and videos created by our staff. Discover how these materials can support your engagement.

Our Education Impact

In 2025, we engaged with schools and education groups across the catchment, delivering meaningful learning, resources, and experiences. The statistics below reflect the reach and impact of our education work during this period.

Full days of education outreach provided to schools and education groups

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Of educators would reuse and recommend WRT education outreach

Children delivered to across the Wear Catchment

Schools and education groups engaged across the catchment

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Of educators agreed activities met pupil needs and facilitated new learning

"The children said it was the best trip they had ever been on and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The Wear Rivers Trust team were so well organised and the whole day went smoothly – thank you so much!"

Year 5 Teacher Castletown Primary School

"Wear Rivers Trust staff did an excellent job working with a mixed-age group of children, which can often be a challenge. Each activity was interesting, engaging, and fun, and the team kept all learners involved throughout."

Hub Coordinator Durham Home Ed Community Hub

"The activities suited our pupils extremely well, even in the cold weather, and kept them engaged throughout the entire day. I would highly recommend this trip to other schools studying rivers as their topic."

Year 4 Teacher Diamond Hall Junior Academy

"Wear Rivers Trust staff demonstrated excellent knowledge and were able to answer every question the children had, helping to deepen their understanding. They were fantastic with all of the pupils, including those with SEN."

Year 5/6 Teacher Gillas Lane Primary Academy & Nursery

"We have been using the scheme of work provided in preparation for the trip. It has been invaluable, ensuring the children have the knowledge and skills needed to complete the field work."

Year 5 Teacher Thorney Close Primary School

"Staff had excellent subject knowledge, it was fantastic for the children to work with specialists who could answer their questions. The activities gave them opportunities they may not have had otherwise."

Year 6 Teacher Thornhill Primary School

Contact Us

If you have any questions or require further information, please contact us and a member of our team will be happy to assist. Please email the Education Team via: education.team@wear-rivers-trust.org.uk