Frequently asked questions
We know your time is precious and we want your visit to be as trouble-free and enjoyable as possible, so we've put together all the information we think you might need to read before you visit.
- What is the Isis Education Centre?
Inspired by the Egyptian goddess of nature, Isis, the purpose built education centre
contains two fully equipped classrooms which can each accommodate up to 30 students. The gardens are a enclosed, secure space for children and young people to explore.
Please note that some activities may also take place outside of the centre in Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens but always under the supervision of one of our expert education officers.
- How do I get to the Isis Education Centre?
Download our map and directions.
If you get lost or need help finding us on the day please contact 020 7036 8056
- Is there somewhere to park?
If you’re travelling to the Isis Education Centre by coach or minibus, we will need to arrange a permit for you. For classes with special needs, we are able to make special arrangements.
- Who do you teach at the Isis Education Centre?
Our experienced team delivers interactive, national curriculum linked sessions, for primary and secondary school students. We also have a number of activities tailored for students with special needs.
- What happens in a typical teaching session?
Our sessions are written to complement the seasons and are delivered according to
weather and resource availability. As a result, it is difficult to provide detailed lesson plans in advance. Please see our primary and secondary ‘session info sheets’ for further details. If you have any specific requirements for your session, please ask during booking.
- How much are the sessions?
Our prices are £82.50 + VAT per class for half a day session, or £155 + VAT per class for a full day session; these classes are subsidised by Halcyon Gallery’s generous support.
In addition, thanks to the amazing support of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, we are able to offer bursaries to some schools who would normally find it difficult to visit the Isis Education Centre.
For more information about prices and bursaries, please call 020 7036 8056
- How do I pay?
After invoicing you, we prefer to receive BACS transfers but can also accept cheques and over-the-phone payments (excluding American Express).
- Do you offer risk assessments?
Whilst one is included in your booking confirmation, teachers are encouraged to come and look around the site in order to carry out their own risk assessments. You can make an appointment to do so when you make a booking.
- I’m concerned about Health and Safety
The Isis Education Centre is a purpose built and fully accessible education centre run by fully qualified staff. However, you are responsible for your groups’ Health and Safety. We will give guidance at the start of each session to help ensure your safety, but keep in mind that the park is a natural ecosystem used by a variety of people and animals.
- What should we wear?
All sessions at the Isis Education Centre include a large amount of work outdoors.
Students must wear suitable outdoor clothing and be dressed for all weathers. It is essential to bring waterproof jackets, suitable footwear like wellies, a hat or hood and layer-up. We will go outside whatever the weather so sessions will continue regardless of rain or intense sunshine.
- What do I do when I arrive?
When you arrive at the Isis Education Centre’s gate, press the buzzer and you'll be met by a member of the education team. You'll then be welcomed into the education centre and shown to your classroom. We have hooks to hang bags and coats during indoor parts of the session.
- What do we do for lunch?
Most groups bring a picnic to eat outside in the park. There is a small café by the Serpentine Lake, but the most convenient thing is to bring packed lunches. We do not sell food or drinks at the Isis Education Centre but there is a drinking-water fountain in the building for student and teacher use.
Sometimes we can offer you our classrooms as an indoor space for lunch breaks, just ask for this during booking. However, please be aware that school session bookings take priority, and will over-ride any lunch-time holdings.
- Do you have toilets?
We have toilets, including baby changing and disabled facilities at the Isis Education Centre. During lunch, teachers can ask for a fob to gain access to these.
- What if we need to amend or cancel our booking?
Upon booking you will receive our booking T&C’s. Please note, that whilst we will do our best to accommodate your requests, last minute changes may incur a charge. Early booking and forward planning are the best steps to ensure your session is just as you need.
- What if we can’t come to you?
Our education team love to deliver sessions in our purpose built classrooms and grounds, but if you really can't make it to Hyde Park, we can offer you an alternative.
- How do I get in touch?
Please contact us online or call 020 7036 8056 for more details or to discuss the specific needs of your group.
