In 2003, the Jurassic Coast published The Jurassic Textbook which proposed innovative ways in which the World Heritage Site, could be used as a tool to promote an understanding of not only the outdoor environment but also the value of Earth Science to manyeducational audiences.

Since then the Jurassic Coast has enabled and resourced over 350 teachers to bring the message of the World Heritage Site into their classrooms. Over 2000 children and young people have been engaged directly in projects associated with the Jurassic Coast. Successful funding for many of these projects has been secured from the Jurassic Coast Trust and the Heritage Lottery Fund. There is now an established Schools Day at the annual Lyme Regis Fossil Festival where hundreds of children and young people have a chance to experience the wonder of the Jurassic Coast first hand. In addition, the Jurassic Coast has established strategic partnerships with leading national bodies for science and geographical education such as the Geological Society, Royal Geographical Society, the Natural History Museum, the UK National Commission for UNESCO and Natural England. As new challenges and opportunities come to the fore, such as the London 2012 Olympic Games and the evolving 3–19 years educational entitlement, the Jurassic Coast education guidelines must develop and adapt to encompass these changes.

Download the new Jurassic Coast Education Strategy (2.75 Mb).

Want to take part in shaping education on the Jurassic Coast?

The Jurassic Coast Learning Partnership exists to strengthen the relationship between partners and stakeholders that help to deliver high quality learning experiences and resources across the Jurassic Coast which are focused on the core values of the World Heritage Site; the rocks, fossils and landforms. Membership is sought from partner and stakeholder organisations that are delivering learning programmes on the Jurassic Coast. Download our Terms of Reference or contact the Jurassic Coast Education Coordinator, Anjana Ford for more information.