Learning on The Move – Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight the largest island in England. Separated by the Solent, the island sits in the English Channel, a few miles off the coast of Hampshire. The island has resorts that have been holiday destinations since Victorian times, and is known for its mild climate, coastal scenery, and green landscape.

The island is designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

It is an island of history with Queen Victoria, building her much-loved summer residence and final home Osborn House at East Cowes. It has a maritime and industrial history including boat-building, sail-making, the manufacture of flying boats, the hovercraft, and Britain's space rockets. Here on the island music history started in 1970 when the island hosts its first of its annual music festivals.

History: The must see, without really saying, is Osborne House. A day out steeped in history. Discover the private family apartments that give some intimate glimpses into the royal family’s life, and the opulent rooms in which Queen Victorian conducted state business. Discover ornate furnishing and priceless artefacts – most still owned by The Royal Collection and still held in trust by the Queen – reflecting Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s passions, tastes and style. There is a real sense of history here. Wander around the Victorian walled garden with its colourful, tree lined Valley Walk leading to the beach and on a good day the beach is somewhere to linger.

The Museum of Island History explores the history of the Isle of Wight form fossils to festivals. Find out about the dinosaurs which lived here over 120 million years ago. You can book a Dinosaur expedition with a company of the same name.

Move forward in time and visit a Roman Villa at Brading. Put on your walking boots and joint he Isle of Wight Royal Heritage Trail and cover the history from 1650 to the 1850’s. The Wight Military and Heritage centre is worth a visit to see how the island made it through the world wars. If you are interested in photography then a visit to Julia Margaret Cameron’s home at Dimbola Lodge for an incite in early picture taking.

If you like your history to have wheels then pop along to the Bus and Coach Museum. There are over 20 buses to admire and explore, plus displays and special events throughout the year. There is also the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for a special day out where you an find out about the unique full interactive history for those rainier days.

You can even encourage the adults to visit some history, more of their liking at the Winery so they can learn about how look after the vines and make quality wine.

Geography: Discover a place of unforgettable adventure and outstanding natural beauty at The Needles. For a dramatic trip around The Needles rocks and lighthouse, take the pleasure boat or fast rib from the jetty with panoramic views of the Alum Bay sand cliffs and iconic chairlift.

Science: Ventnor Botanic Gardens are well worth a visit. The Gardens lies at the hare of the microclimate on the south coast of the Isle of Wight. Often up to 5 degrees warmer than the average UK temperature – making the these the hottest gardens around.

Want something slightly smellier? Visit the Garlic farm and join the tour to learn all about this wonderful plant.

There are a number of some interesting zoos, sanctuaries and rescue centres on the island. It is a simple choice of which type of animal you like best and aim for that encounter.

The Island Planetarium has a number of multi-media shows linked to space.

Religious Education: Quarr Abbey is the home of Benedictine monks who worship God in the Abby Church regularly through the day. Tours start at the Abbey Shop and you can find out about their life within the community.

Music: Basically pick you genre and book tickets to a festival and enjoy.

Physical Exercise: There are many great walks and cycle routes around the island. But if you prefer water sports there is paddle boarding, kayaking, surfing and kite-surfing to do.

Design and Technology: the Rock Shops in Sandown and Shanklin have been wowing customers with their range of confectionery for over 70 years. These sweets are handmade and there are demonstrations at the Shanklin shop to inspire you to make your own sweets back at home.

Don’t forget to add all of the activities that you take part in - in to your diary.