Everything is groovy at Mallydams with free visits for Wild Things...

As part of a Big Lottery funded Hastings Wild Things project, RSPCA Mallydams are offering free visits to children including paying for their coach transport. The initiative could potentially see hundred’s of local children learn more about life cycles, food chains, and animal habitats and meet some special RSPCA animals.

Community Engagement Manager Anna Herrieven says the aim is to engage pupils in active learning in key subjects. “In our experience children love to get outdoors and explore and this is a really effective way of learning, she said. “We provide a full day of activities led by an experienced schools officer as well as coach transport. I hope local schools take advantage of this offer to bring the curriculum to life.”

RSPCA Mallydams Wood Education and Wildlife Centre, Hastings was set up in 1961 after woodland was given to the RSPCA by benefactor Horace Quick. It has twice been awarded the Learning Outside the Classroom quality badge for high quality teaching and learning experiences. The 55-acre wood is brimming with nature to explore and includes an education centre, a 38-bed residential facility and wildlife rehabilitation centre which deals with 2,500 wildlife casualties a year. Hastings Wild Things has helped around 11,000 young people overcome personal barriers and learn through positive interaction with nature since 2010. [email protected]