National Parks are areas of protected countryside that everyone can visit. They are also places where people live, work and shape the landscape.
There are 15 National Parks in Britain: 10 in England, 3 in Wales and 2 in Scotland. The governing body that runs the Park is called the Authority. There are responsibilities that come with being a National Park. These include:
- To conserve and enhance natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage
- To help the public understand and enjoy the special qualities of the area
As well as looking after the landscape of the Park the authority has a duty to help improve the quality of life and well-being of local communities and businesses in the Park.
The South Downs National Park was established in 2009 and the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) assumed its full powers and duties from April 2011.
Resources Toolbox
General Interest
All Ages
-
History of National Parks in the UK - Key points timeline
National Parks were designated in order to protect beautiful areas for the nation. The key points are highlighted in this timeline. -
Images of the Seven Special Qualities
A sheet of eight images for each of the seven special qualities. Useful for illustrating topics, exploring whether the special qualities overlap, and promoting discussion about what is special to you in the South Downs. -
Introduction to tourism in National Park
A PowerPoint presentation introducing facts, figures and impacts of tourism within the National Park. -
National Parks England - Wildlife Wonders
National Parks provide valuable spaces for nature on a large scale, with special protection for wildlife. Map and infographic of the wildlife highlights in England's National Parks. -
Running Game - Find the Facts
Get students active while discovering key facts about the South Downs National Park. -
SDNP Visitor Survey 2011-12
The full technical report of the South Downs Visitor Survey 2011-2012 providing facts, figure and data sources. -
South Downs National Park Interactive Map
This interactive pdf allows you to display a variety of map layers: transport, rivers & coast, settlements, landscape types, contours, historical features, population and geology. Download and open in Adobe Reader to turn layers on and off. -
South Downs National Park Interactive Map - legend
This is the legend for the interactive pdf that allows you to display a variety of map layers.
Key Stage 2
Ages 7–11
Years 3, 4, 5 and 6
Key Stage 3
Ages 11–14
Years 7, 8 and 9
Key Stage 4
Ages 14–16
Years 10 and 11
-
Introduction to tourism in National Park
A PowerPoint presentation introducing facts, figures and impacts of tourism within the National Park. -
Running Game - Find the Facts
Get students active while discovering key facts about the South Downs National Park. -
SDNP Visitor Survey 2011-12
The full technical report of the South Downs Visitor Survey 2011-2012 providing facts, figure and data sources.
Key Stage 5
Ages 16–18
Years 12 and 13
