WHY GO TO THE CÉVENNES ?
The scope for fieldwork in biology, environmental science, geography,
geology and history is endless, offering many unique opportunities. The
problem of access to suitable sites, so often a major difficulty in the UK,
is practically non existent in the Cévennes. The Eagle's Nest is
surrounded by open , and unspoiled, countryside; many studies can be
conducted in the immediate vicinity of the centre without the need for
transport. There are woods, open moorland, farmland and streams all within
100 metres. In addition there are villages, larger rivers and towns
nearby.
Few locations in Britain can offer the beauty or variety of the
Cévennes, ranging from granite tors to some of Europe's most dramatic
limestone gorges and caves. Mike McHugo, a director of Discover and Centre
Manager, lives at the centre all the year round with his family Gilly and
Dominique and so the inhabitants of the area have built up a good
relationship with the family. This gives you access into farms, homes and
businesses in the area that normally would not be available for fieldwork.
There are all sorts of opportunities for students of all ages.
Starting
at the age of eight or nine, it is not uncommon for youngsters to get the
first taste of France and the French
language by doing work on employment and land use in the area with
questionnaires filled in from French conversations in the village and farms.
Whilst at the other end of the educational age range 16 to 19 geography
students or those at University might be looking at the unique geology of
the region.
Duke of Edinburgh Award candidates often use the centre as a base for the route planning and hiking that's required for the award, as the spectacular scenery, glorious weather and ease of access to walk ways makes the experience far more enjoyable than in the unpredictable weather of Britain. The National Park ensures strict controls on the use of chemicals in agriculture, resulting in a phenomenal diversity of wild flowers and insects. We have excellent contacts and co–operation with local authorities and residents including the forestry commission, the park ranger and farmers, giving us ready access to study sites. Although we cannot guarantee good weather, the Mediterranean climate is considerably more predictable than that of the UK.
Finally there is the added advantage of a residential stay and the
excitement of foreign travel. Whilst this is clearly not a part of any
syllabus, its educational benefits are not to be underestimated. Most of
the students thoroughly enjoy their stay at the Eagle's nest, which helps
them to develop relationships with teachers and fellow students whilst
stimulating interest in their chosen subject.
The Centre was developed by us as a purpose built
field study and recreational base for young people. Accommodation is in
small dormitories for students with separate staff bedrooms and showers.
Accommodation for the spouses and children of group leaders can be arranged
at a small extra cost. There are 3 fully equipped classrooms (equipped with
overhead projector, slide projector, video and whiteboards) plus shop,
drying facilities, Games room, Coffee Lounge, Bar and Disco.
We have a very wide range of field work equipment, I.T. and written resources available to all groups at the Centre. Our detailed work units cater for primary to advanced level students, studying in large groups or following individual projects. Each unit places emphasis on sound enquiry and field work skills, as well as covering the widest possible range of stimulating topics. Individual programmes can be selected from our wide range of work units for all levels of study from primary to A level and beyond. You should select the most appropriate study units for your students before your visit – if you need any assistance we are only a phone call away and are always happy to offer advice on the selection of units. When you arrive at the centre one of our resident Academic Advisors will be there to assist you with the study topics and guide you to the various locations. Transport is available throughout your stay subject to EU driving rules and regulations. Each visit to The Eagle's Nest is tailor–made to provide the course and activities you and your students want and all our prices are fully inclusive.
Field work abroad has many advantages, not least of
which is the added stimulus and excitement of a totally new environment.
Even at Advanced Level the students feel they are breaking new ground and
the research element gains greater realism. The Eagle's Nest provides an
excellent location for a range of recreational pursuits enabling us to offer
a full programme of exciting things to do. Options from this programme can
be selected to supplement your academic field work course. The Eagle's Nest
provides the ideal atmosphere for any combination of recreation and study
for young people. To this end we provide many little "extras" to make your
stay more comfortable and enjoyable without additional cost. For example
you have the option of a full cooked English breakfast, and free wine at
dinner. Students have access to a common room where hot drinks are available
throughout the day.
STOPOVERS AND VISITS EN ROUTE
On all our
trips it is of course possible to tailor a trip to your requirements:
arranging stopovers either in Paris or other towns en route to visit places
of interest – Euro Disney for example. It is also possible for us to
arrange travel by Eurotunnel for those that wish – this may incur a
surcharge. Please let us know your requirements so that we may cost them for
you. The route to the Eagle's Nest takes you close to Le Puy and its famous
Volcanic Plugs, we have an information pack on this fascinating town for
those groups that wish to break their journey on their way down and spend an
hour or two either sight seeing or commencing with some field work. We have
also made a Video of the benefits of fieldwork at "The Eagle's
Nest".
Whilst booking at any unfamiliar location is bound to cause some
anxiety, we believe you will not be disappointed if you book a trip to the
Eagle's Nest. We take the worry out of the administration and travel
arrangements for your tour, provide a homely centre for your group and a
worthwhile programme of work, visits and activities of your choice which
guarantee a successful trip.
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"Timbers", Oxted Rd., Godstone Surrey RH9 8AD UK general e-mail info@discover.ltd.uk