Somerset Fossil Workshops
Somerset Fossil Workshops
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  • Home
  • Services & Prices
  • About Us
  • Contact
  • FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a school visit? Here are answers to some common questions about our workshops, fossil collection and casting activity.


Please reach us at somersetfossilworkshops@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What happens during a workshop?

How long does a session last, and how many pupils can attend?

Which year groups are the workshops suitable for?

We bring a selection of real fossils and replicas into your school, introducing pupils to prehistoric animals and the clues their remains leave behind. Sessions combine an interactive presentation, opportunities to examine specimens and ask questions, and a practical fossil-casting activity.

Which year groups are the workshops suitable for?

How long does a session last, and how many pupils can attend?

Which year groups are the workshops suitable for?

Our workshops are designed for Years 1–6. Explanations, questions and activities are adapted to the age of the pupils. Please mention any mixed-year groups when enquiring so we can plan the session accordingly.

How long does a session last, and how many pupils can attend?

How long does a session last, and how many pupils can attend?

How long does a session last, and how many pupils can attend?

Each session lasts approximately one hour and accommodates up to 30 pupils. We agree the timetable with your school before the visit.

Can several classes take part during one visit?

Are the fossils real, and can pupils handle them?

How long does a session last, and how many pupils can attend?

Yes. A half-day visit includes up to two sessions, and a full-day visit includes up to four. Each session accommodates up to 30 pupils, allowing different classes to take part throughout the visit.

Are the workshops only about British fossils?

Are the fossils real, and can pupils handle them?

Are the fossils real, and can pupils handle them?

British fossils and prehistoric wildlife are our main focus, helping pupils connect their discoveries with places closer to home. Familiar favourites from elsewhere in the world, including dinosaurs such as T. rex and Triceratops, can also feature in the discussion.

Are the fossils real, and can pupils handle them?

Are the fossils real, and can pupils handle them?

Are the fossils real, and can pupils handle them?

Our collection includes genuine fossils alongside replicas. Selected specimens and replicas can be handled under guidance, while more delicate fossils are shown without being passed around. We explain which objects are suitable for handling and how to treat them carefully.

Can the workshop connect with our classroom topic?

What if a child’s cast doesn’t turn out well or breaks?

Can the workshop connect with our classroom topic?

Please mention your topic when enquiring. Themes such as fossils, rocks, prehistoric animals, evolution and changing environments can help connect the visit with classroom learning. We will discuss what is suitable for your year group and the available session time.

Does every child get a fossil to take home?

What if a child’s cast doesn’t turn out well or breaks?

Can the workshop connect with our classroom topic?

One small fossil replica is included for every participating child. This is a cast made as part of the activity, rather than an original fossil. We keep the reusable moulds for future workshops.

What if a child’s cast doesn’t turn out well or breaks?

What if a child’s cast doesn’t turn out well or breaks?

What if a child’s cast doesn’t turn out well or breaks?

We bring prepared spare replicas in case a cast does not release cleanly from its mould or is accidentally damaged during the workshop. A replacement can be provided at no extra cost, so the child still has a fossil replica to take home.

Can a child choose a different replica?

What space and facilities does the school need to provide?

What if a child’s cast doesn’t turn out well or breaks?

We explain the available designs during the session. Where spare stock allows, we can help a child exchange their replica for another design. Particular designs cannot always be guaranteed, and one take-home replica is included per child.

What space and facilities does the school need to provide?

What space and facilities does the school need to provide?

What space and facilities does the school need to provide?

We need a classroom or suitable indoor space with tables for the specimens and casting activity. Access to water for the activity and washing hands is also helpful.


We will confirm the room arrangement and any other requirements before the visit. Please mention any parking, unloading or access restrictions when booking.

Can pupils with additional needs take part?

What space and facilities does the school need to provide?

What space and facilities does the school need to provide?

Please discuss any learning, communication, sensory or accessibility needs with us before booking. This allows suitable adjustments to be considered with school staff.


Pupils can engage in different ways, including observing, asking questions and examining replicas. Please also flag any relevant allergies or sensitivities so we can discuss the activity materials in advance.

Do school staff need to stay during the workshop?

Do school staff need to stay during the workshop?

Do school staff need to stay during the workshop?

Yes. A teacher or another appropriate member of school staff must remain with each group throughout the session. School staff retain responsibility for pupil supervision and provide any individual support pupils normally need.

Are your presenters DBS checked?

Do school staff need to stay during the workshop?

Do school staff need to stay during the workshop?

Yes. Our workshop presenters are DBS checked, with details available to schools before a visit. We will also discuss your school’s visitor arrangements in advance.

What is included in the price?

Do school staff need to stay during the workshop?

What is included in the price?

The workshop fee includes the sessions booked, the specimens and replicas used during the visit, casting equipment and materials, and one small take-home replica per participating child.


Travel is charged separately and included in the full quote before booking. Please see Services & Prices for our current half-day and full-day rates.

Which areas do you cover?

How far ahead should we enquire?

What is included in the price?

We are based in Cheddar and currently focus on visits to schools across Somerset. Include your school’s postcode when enquiring so we can calculate travel costs.

How do we book and pay?

How far ahead should we enquire?

How far ahead should we enquire?

Use our contact form or email with your school’s name, postcode, year groups, pupil numbers and preferred dates. We will discuss your requirements and provide a full quote.


Your booking is confirmed once the arrangements and quote have been agreed and written confirmation has been sent. Payment is by invoice and bank transfer.

How far ahead should we enquire?

How far ahead should we enquire?

How far ahead should we enquire?

Get in touch once you have a date or school term in mind. You can also enquire about shorter-notice visits; availability will depend on existing bookings.

Still have a question?

Contact us to discuss your school’s plans or anything not covered here.

Enquire about a school visit

Somerset Fossil Workshops

somersetfossilworkshops@gmail.com

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