Related
Recommended
Louise Moss
We’re thrilled to be welcoming groups of visiting school children once again, where they can begin to return to some normality, with the help of nature and our stunning reserve.
 (rspb-images.com)
To help keep everyone safe during school visits we will be closing some areas of the reserve. We recognise that some of you might not be comfortable around large groups yet so, here’s the lowdown on when you’re likely to encounter visiting schools, in case you prefer to visit on a quieter day.
  • Wednesday 29 September: Wildlife Garden, picnic area will be closed until 14:30. Part of the cafe will be closed all day. Balcony closed between 12:00 and 13:00.
  • Thursday 30 September: Wildlife Garden and picnic area will be closed between 9:00 and 12:00. Children will be on the river wall path.
  • Wedenday 20 October: Wildlife Garden, picnic area and part of the cafe will be closed between 9:00 and 14:30. Balcony closed between 11:30 and 12:45. Purfleet hide closed between 11:30 and 12:00.
  • Thursday 21 October: Part of the café closed until 13:00. Balcony closed between 11:30 and 12:30
Visitor Centre toilets will be closed while the schoolchildren are using them (this could be several times during the day) and we’ll sanitise all touchpoints (eg taps, handles) after each use before re-opening them. Visitors can use the balcony (disabled) toilet when our main toilets are closed.
Visiting children will often be in, and around, the Visitor Centre. We’ll work in the dedicated education zones when we can, but this isn’t always possible. You may encounter groups of 30 or more, please try to give the group space when you see them, and we’ll try to do the same for you.
If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with any member of the reserve team.