Study Topics
Study Programmes: Key Stage 1 & 2
Science
Centre activities cover most aspects of Sc1 and Sc2, featuring animal/plant life cycles, adaptation, habitats and food chains, through woodland, hedgerow, terrestrial and freshwater minibeast studies. Both the river Darent and its environs and the Centre wildlife area are used for these investigations.
Pupils collect land invertebrates from under logs, stones and amongst the grass in the meadow, together with freshwater life from the pond. Minibeasts are observed closely and identified in the resources room with the use of a media cam, enabling the specimens to be seen enlarged on a screen. Plants in Westminster Fields and other areas, particularly May and early June, provide opportunities for studying parts of plants, conditions needed for germination and seed dispersal.
Recycling activities are also featured as part of 'ESD' -
Education for Sustainable Development at Horton Kirby EEC
Geography
River Study (KS2). Based on the theme 'water and its effects on landscapes and people' pupils may study some physical features of the River Darent e.g. the rivers journey from source to estuary encompassing investigations of flow, width, depth, erosion, transportation and deposition.
Information:
- River Studies at Horton Kirby.
- Term 1 & 2 2007/08 Darent River Measurements
- Spring Term 2008 River Measurements
- Summer Term 2008 River Measurements
Locality Study - Horton Kirby comprises a variety of housing types, together with other buildings and is a good example of environmental change in the area. Settlement patterns are observed, together with physical and human features during a circular trail through the village. Maps of varying scales are available for the walk and for use back at the Centre to assist pupils mapping skills and encourage an understanding of place. Historical aspects are incorporated to enhance the study of the village. 
History
Horton Kirby is ideally suited for a local history study with an emphasis on houses and homes through the ages. A visit to the centre is complemented by a study of the old village primary school with its period classroom and other features. Victorian Horton Kirby will support the British History unit `Victorian Britain` through investigations of family life in the village etc. (Links more directly with KS2 Programme of Study but is also appropriate for KS1).
A History of the School in Victorian Times
Darenth Valley At War
This new theme highlights the local area during WW2 mainly from the child's perspective. The mass evacuation of children from the big cities will be explored, together with rationing and life on the home front. The area which is now Lullingstone golf course used to be a replica airfield to distract German bombers from nearby Biggin Hill. This supports Key Stage 2 unit 'Britain Since 1930s'.
Main Programmes of Study 2008/2009 - A Summary
Winter Programme
Winter activities continue through January and February 2009 and include 'Nature in Winter' - Learn how nature prepares for the winter season.
Key Stage 3 & 4
Coursework
The Centre offers facilities for relevant coursework. Data collection can be carried out through land use, topographical, pollution and river studies. Habitat ecology and contrasting locality studies may also be investigated using the local natural and built environment.
Centre Themes
Literacy and numeracy, ICT, Citizenship and Sustainability
Centre themes and activities also provide an obvious stimulus for literacy and numeracy, together with ICT and other areas of the curriculum such as Citizenship and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). Programmes of study can be adapted to suit teacher requirements and the needs and abilities of the pupils.
Contact
For further information about centre activities please contact the Centre Manager
Booking Information
Booking information and further details for visiting schools can be found here