In NESBiP’s area, which includes Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray, there are various outdoor education providers in North East Scotland who can deliver outdoor education sessions, educational visits and training opportunities.

Looking for teaching materials and guidance? Visit our Outdoor Learning Resources in North East Scotland page.

Ranger Services and Outdoor Education Providers

Many of the outdoor education providers in North East Scotland listed below can deliver curriculum-linked activities, school visits and practical experiences that help learners connect with nature.

Aberdeenshire Council Ranger Service, Aberdeen City Council Ranger Service, Duthie Park Ranger Service and Moray Council Ranger Service are the relevant local authority ranger services for the area. They can be contacted through the links.

Glen Tanar Ranger Service, Glenlivet Estate Ranger Service and Balmoral Ranger Service can deliver outdoor education on their respective estates. The North East Ranger Service is based at Crathes Castle and can provide outdoor education across the National Trust for Scotland properties in the area. The Dorenell Ranger Service can offer educational visits to the Dorenell Wind Farm and adjoining areas in the Cabrach.

National Nature Reserves for Educational Visits

The National Nature Reserves at St. Cyrus, Forvie, Muir of Dinnet, and Mar Lodge are great places to learn about our special wildlife, geology and habitats. Contact the reserves to arrange an educational visit.

Freshwater, River and Marine Education

The River Dee Trust, Deveron, Bogie and Isla Rivers Charitable Trust and the East Grampian Coastal Partnership can provide education sessions on various aspects of freshwater biology, invasive species control and marine education.

Outdoor Learning Training and Professional Development

There are a number of organisations in the area who can offer support for outdoor education through training courses and CPD. Wild Things and Earthtime run accredited qualifications and skills development opportunities in aspects of outdoor learning. Visit their websites to find more information.

The Aberdeen Biodiversity Centre can arrange school group visits to the Cruickshank Botanic Gardens and the Zoology Museum at the University of Aberdeen. They can also provide CPD for teachers who wish to lead their own visits.

Independent Outdoor Learning Practitioners

Alongside larger organisations, several independent outdoor education providers in North East Scotland offer specialist nature-based activities, training and learning experiences.

These include Dan Puplett Nature Awareness and Leafy Trails Forest School. Mud Pies runs engaging activities for children, families and schools in the area to capture the magic of the outdoors and to get switched on to the wonders of nature. Have a look at their individual websites to find out more information.

High School pupils on a Snapberry photography workshop ©Lorne Gill/NatureScot

“Everybody needs beauty…places to play in and pray in where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to the body and soul alike.” John Muir