Observing kingfishers, dissecting owl pellets and hammering thatching reed into place.

These activities are all part of school residential stays which have happened at an educational site overlooking the Broads since the 1960s.

A typical school residential stay at How Hill also includes dyke dipping to find the creatures lurking in the Broads waterways, learning about bygone life in a riverside cottage, orienteering, a nature trail, plus arts, crafts and fun games with a nature theme.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: How Hill Trust celebrates it's 40's anniversary this summer How Hill Trust celebrates it's 40's anniversary this summer (Image: Submitted)

After Norfolk County Council discontinued operations in 1983, the charity How Hill Trust took over the educational centre, and is planning to celebrate its 40th anniversary this summer.

The trust continually improves and adapts its offerings.

These improvements, which included additional en-suite bathrooms during a Covid-related closure, aim at future-proofing the centre and broadening its appeal across age groups.

The enhanced facility allows the trust not only to accommodate more school children but also increasingly cater to adult groups during the off-school period.

The adult course which the centre offers includes varied activities such as sailing, church visits, bird and butterfly tours, and theme-based food evenings.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Children learn about traditional thatching and even try out their skills by seeing if it leaks Children learn about traditional thatching and even try out their skills by seeing if it leaks (Image: Submitted)

And it is these adult courses that provide vital extra income for the charity to support its core schools work.

Simon Partridge, director of How Hill Trust, said: “Visits to How Hill have a big impact on students - learning about nature at first hand in a magical setting, as well as the adventure of staying in the house.

“We constantly get adult visitors who always speak fondly of the time they came to How Hill as a child. It makes memories which last a lifetime.”

A recent visit by Year 5 students from the Pilgrim Federation in North Norfolk - comprising schools in Blakeney, Kelling, Hindringham and Walsingham - saw 22 youngsters enjoy the fun activities.

How Hill Trust chairman Richard Batson said: “We are looking forward to our next 40 years with positivity but we are always keen to hear from anyone who can support us with fundraising, donations or remembering us in their will so that future generations can enjoy making memories at How Hill.”