FAQs

 

Whether you’re brand new to outdoor early years care or you’ve been looking for a while, it’s normal to have questions. Below you’ll find answers to the things families ask us most often. If you can’t find what you need, please Enquire — we’re happy to help.

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Quick links: Sessions • Fees & funding • Food • Clothing • Naps & toileting • Weather • Tools, fire & animals • Additional needs • Enquire

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Sessions

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What ages do you take?

We welcome children from 9 months to 5 years.

What days and hours are you open?

We run term-time only, Monday to Thursday, 8.30am–4.00pm.

Do you offer part days?

No — we only offer full days. We find this supports a settled routine and gives children time to fully engage in woodland and farm life.

Do children need to attend a minimum number of days?

Yes. Children attend a minimum of 2 days per week. In our experience, consistency helps children settle more quickly and feel secure in the setting.

What is your adult-to-child ratio and group size?

We keep our groups small for calm, attentive care:

• Ratio: 1 adult to 3 children

• Maximum: 6 children per day

 

Fees & funding

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How much does it cost?

Our rate is £8 per hour, and we offer full days only. A 8:30am–4:00pm day is 7.5 hours.
We do, however, offer funded places.

Do you take a deposit?

Yes. We take a holding deposit equal to one month’s fees, which is refunded when your child starts.

Do you offer funded places?

Yes — government funded early education hours are available (subject to eligibility), and we accept all funded entitlements. If you’re unsure what you qualify for, just ask and we’ll point you in the right direction.

 

Food

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Do you provide food?

Yes. We provide morning snack, lunch, and afternoon snack every day.

Can I send a packed lunch?

No. Because we encourage children to cook, prepare, and share food together, we don’t accept packed lunches.

Can you cater for dietary needs?

Yes. We can provide vegetarian and vegan options. Please tell us about allergies or dietary requirements when you enquire so we can plan safely.

 

Clothing

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What should my child wear?

We are outdoors in all seasons, so good clothing makes a huge difference to comfort and enjoyment. Parents are responsible for providing:

• Good-quality waterproof coat and waterproof trousers/one-piece suit

• Wellies

• Warm layers in cold weather (hat, gloves, fleece)

• Sun protection in hot weather (hat, suitable clothing, sun cream if required)

• Spare clothes (especially for younger children)

Children should arrive dressed appropriately for the weather. If children are dressed well, they can enjoy the woodland fully — rain, mud, and all.

 

Naps & toileting

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Where do children nap or rest?

Because we keep numbers small, we can tailor rest to each child. Children sleep where they’re most comfortable — indoors or outdoors — and we support individual routines as closely as possible.

Do you have toilets on site? What about nappies?

Yes, we have toilets on site. Parents provide nappies and wipes if their child needs them.

 

Weather

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Do you run in all weathers?

Yes — we run in all weathers. In very poor conditions we can use our warm indoor spaces to rest, play, and warm up, but we aim to keep children connected to the outdoors year-round.

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Tools, fire & animals

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How do you manage safety around tools and fire?

Children use tools and fire regularly, always with clear boundaries and close supervision. We take the lead from each child’s confidence and readiness, supporting them to be involved at a level that feels safe and appropriate.

How do you manage safety around farm animals?

Children only have supervised contact with animals, and we uphold strict hygiene measures (including routine handwashing). We teach calm, respectful behaviour around animals and keep clear boundaries in place.

 

Additional needs

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Do you support children with additional needs (SEND)?

Yes. We have extensive experience supporting children with additional needs. We welcome a conversation before your child starts so we can understand what works best for your child and plan the right support.

 

Enquire

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How do I enquire about a place?

Use the Enquire form and include your child’s date of birth, the days you’re looking for, and whether you’re interested in funded hours. We’ll get back to you with availability and the next steps.

Ready to take the next step?

If you’d like to check availability, ask about funded places, or arrange a visit, please click Enquire and send us a message.