Evidence for Evolution
This session explores evidence for evolution by handling real fossils from the Horniman’s collection and discussing what they are and what we can learn from them.
Children will compare the beaks of different birds, like Charles Darwin did, and also study some taxidermy animals and find out how they have adapted to their environment.
The Horniman is the perfect place to explore your topic further. Explore live mammals and birds living in our free Animal Walk (open from 12.30pm), plants and wildlife across our 16 acres of Gardens, or the relationship between animals and humans in our World Gallery.
Learning Objectives:
- To recognise that living things have changed over time and that fossils provide information about living things that inhabited the Earth millions of years ago.
- Identify how animals and plants have adapted to suit their environment in different ways and that adaptation may lead to evolution.
’We were able to explore evidence!’ Teacher
Please note that our Natural History Gallery is now closed for redevelopment and will reopen in late 2026. The rest of our Galleries, displays, Aquarium and Gardens will be open as usual, with plenty across the site to support your topic (from our free Animal Walk, to our World Gallery). Our schools workshops are unaffected.
Our new, free Natural History Pop Up exhibition is open until May 2026.
Workshop information
How to book
Booking a taught session includes a welcome briefing on arrival, timed access to a lunch space, cloakroom facilities and access to toilets for the exclusive use of school groups.
Contact us to make a booking:
schools@horniman.ac.uk
020 8291 8686
When you contact us please have ready:
– the name of the taught session you would like to book or topic you are studying,
-1st/2nd/3rd choice of date and preferred session time,
– the number of pupils and adults attending.
Costs
Entrance to the Horniman Museum and Gardens is free of charge. Taught sessions and access to some exhibitions are charged for. We invoice before your visit.
The following charges apply:
Mainstream State schools: £100 including VAT, £83.33 excluding VAT
Private/independent schools: £140 including VAT, £116.67 excluding VAT
SEND schools and groups: £50 including VAT, £41.67 excluding VAT
We offer a bursary scheme for schools that meet a set criteria.
Planning your visit
See the School Trips page for other essential information including our risk assessment.
We are open from 10am-5.30pm, 7 days a week. Entrance to the Museum and Gardens is free of charge but must be booked in advance by emailing schools@horniman.ac.uk.
We offer reduced educational rates for our Aquarium, Butterfly House, and Temporary exhibition. See the School Trips page for further information.
Charges apply to all children aged 3 years and over, and all accompanying teachers and adults, unless they are specific 1:1 carers.