Balmacara Estate teacher information

The townships of Drumbuie, Duirinish and Plockton are exceptional examples of traditional croft management. The low-intensity agriculture helps to retain and enhance locally and nationally important habitats, and provides a haven of ecological diversity.

There are many archaeological and historic features around the estate. The open-air church at Plockton and the crannog on Loch Achaidh na h-Inich are both designated Scheduled Ancient Monuments.

The Lochalsh Woodland Walks provide a series of short sheltered walks by the shores of Loch Alsh. The Coille Mhór Oak-Birch wood is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area for Conservation. The coastline is recognised for its outstanding scenic value and the whole estate supports a variety of botanical and wildlife habitats.

The school visit offers opportunities for cross-curricular work and engaging with the Curriculum for Excellence. The Crofting Landscape & Historic Plockton is a popular themed visit - your class can be split into two groups if necessary (maximum 15 pupils per group). One group learns about the history of Balmacara Estate, modern crofting and the associated wildlife; the other group learns about the planned village of Plockton - they then swap round. The coach will need to move your pupils from one site to the other. More details will be given on booking.

Ranger-led walks are available at various locations throughout Balmacara Estate.

Ranger visits to local schools are also available (please telephone to discuss).

Possible topics

• Crofting
• Wildlife habitats
• Historical settlements

Resources for schools

• Balmacara Estate leaflet - available on request
• Interactive CD-ROM includes Crofting Game - available on request
• Illustrated guidebook - for sale at Estate office and available on request
• Balmacara Square Visitor Centre has orientation and interpretation panels, and an interactive touchscreen computer programme.
• Plockton Visitor Centre has orientation and interpretation panels, and a Plockton Historical Society display.

Planning your class visit

• To book: please contact the Balmacara Estate office to discuss your visit; we can tailor interpretative activities to meet your requirements.
• Book well in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Maximum class size of 30 pupils, with a ratio of 1 teacher/adult to 8 pupils.
• Access: both visitor centres are accessible for wheelchair users but most of the activities on offer take place on ground that is not suitable. Please phone to discuss your requirements - we will do our utmost to accommodate your pupils.
• Parking: coaches can park at Balmacara Square, the Lochalsh Woodland Walks car park or in Plockton (details will be confirmed when booking your programme).
• Toilets: there are no public toilets at Balmacara Square but there are fully accessible public toilets at Kyle of Lochalsh and public facilities available at Plockton.
• Refreshments: pupils are welcome to picnic at Balmacara Square or in the Lochalsh Woodland Walks. There are no wet weather facilities.
• Clothing: please ensure that your pupils have clothing for outdoors. They should have both warm and waterproof clothing and footwear. For sunny days your pupils should have protection against the sun - for instance, a long-sleeved jacket and a sun hat or cap.
• All the activity sites and various locations have been risk assessed. Teachers are expected to prepare their own risk assessment for the visit.

Charges

• There is no admission charge for schools with Trust educational membership.
• Non-members are welcome but there is an activity charge - charges vary depending on the activity.
• All class teachers are encouraged to make a free preparatory visit to the site.

During your class visit

• A member of Trust staff will meet you at a prearranged location.
• Most walks will be led by Trust staff - unless you have booked a programme that includes some teacher-led activities (this would be made clear when booking).
• The Crofting Landscape & Historic Plockton programme takes 2-3 hours per session. More details will be given on booking.
• Teachers are responsible for their pupils and their behaviour.
• Pupils may take photos/films during their visit.
• Shop: there is no shop at Balmacara Square but tourist facilities are available at Plockton.