We love welcoming schools to the museum
The River & Rowing Museum, in its beautiful riverside setting, brings learning to life in a fun and interactive way. We give schools the opportunity to get up close to museum objects and take part in hands-on curriculum-led experiences.
We are certified with the Quality Badge for Learning Outside The Classroom.
Ways of visiting
Full day visit (Tuesday to Thursday)
- A workshop taught in our beautiful river-side Thames Room, with hands-on activities
- A guided walk along the river (or we can arrange a boat trip for an additional price)
- A teacher-led session in the Museum’s galleries supported by resources
£8 per pupil +VAT (accompanying adults free)
Minimum charge of £175 +VAT
Self-led visit
Spend time in our Museum galleries; the River Gallery, Rowing Gallery, Henley Gallery, Piper Gallery and Wind in the Willows, as well as our temporary exhibition spaces.
£4.50 per pupil +VAT (accompanying adults free)
Workshops
01
Understanding rivers
Understanding rivers
The workshop helps pupils to understand river processes, with reference to the River Thames, and to develop their knowledge and understanding of geographical vocabulary. It also introduces children to the idea that rivers are more than a geographical feature. Rivers are habitats, trade routes, places of work, places for leisure activities and environments which need to be carefully managed, if all these activities are to be sustained successfully alongside each other.
Key stage two: Geography
Image: © David Davidson
02
River of life
River of life
Using the environment of the River Thames pupils will develop their scientific skills of observation and identification to name and group living things in different ways and identify their suitability to their environment (adaptation).
Pupils will also investigate predator/ prey relationships, and the idea of simple food chains.
Key stage one or two: Science
03
Flood
Flood
The workshop aims to enhance understanding of the river processes, flooding, and the balance between human an environmental relationships in a river drainage basin. In addition, students will learn about large-scale management methods along the River Thames and review advantages and disadvantages of different flood protection methods.
The workshop primarily focuses on the Thames, with a particular emphasis on the area between the River & Rowing Museum and Marsh Lock.
Key stage three: Geography
Image: © David Davidson
04
Building bridges
Building bridges
The workshop aims to help children work in small teams to understand bridges as structures. Children learn that structures can fail when overloaded and that techniques can be used to reinforce and strengthen structures, such as folding, joining, using cylinders, arches, and triangular shapes. Pupils will measure a bridge’s load and span. The workshop also aims to help children use a range of first and secondhand evidence from
the Henley and River Galleries to learn about the history of Henley Bridge.
Key stage one or two: Science and history
Image: © David Davidson
05
Wind in the Willows
Wind in the Willows
The workshop provides creative challenges, which explore the connections between Grahame’s characters and the real habitats and wildlife that inspired them.
Key stage one or two: English and science
06
Toad and friends
Toad and friends
The workshop aims to give pupils a chance to explore and discover the wider world in a safe and unique environment. It links to many Early Learning goals and introduces pupils to the Museum setting and collections using the story of the Wind in the Willows.
Foundation: Art & design, music
Education FAQs
How many children can you accommodate?
We can accommodate up to 60 pupils per day.
When can we visit?
We are currently scheduling school visits on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (please note that on Tuesday and Wednesday we are closed to the public, but we are open on Thursday).
How long can we stay?
Our full days usually run from 10.00am to 2.15pm but we may be able to be flexible with these timings. If you are booking for a self-led visit, the Museum is open 10.00am to 4.00pm.
Where can we eat lunch?
If the weather is dry and warm, we encourage you to use our beautiful setting next to the river and have lunch on Mill Meadows, opposite the Museum. If you would prefer to eat indoors, you can lunch in our Thames Room.
Can we park coaches at the Museum?
We have free parking for coaches.
How accessible are you?
We have a ramp from the car park to the Museum and from the Museum onto the path to the Meadows. The walks along the tow path are step-free but there are slopes along the route. We have an accessible toilet downstairs and the first floor galleries are accessed via a lift.
Do you provide risk assessments?
How many adults can we bring?
Our ratios are:
1:2 for pupils between the ages of 0-2
1:6 for pupils between the ages 3-7
1:8 for pupils between the ages of 7-11
1:15 for pupils aged 11+
The more the merrier!
We value adult input and want you to have an enjoyable visit too. We will even make you a cup of tea at lunchtime!
What are your terms and conditions?
Our terms and conditions can be read here and by confirming your booking you are accepting these terms and conditions.
Thanks for a brilliant day. We were looked after so well, the activities were well-thought out and engaging for the children, who all enjoyed their day.