Forest Friends FAQs
“Thank you so, so much! Me and my daughter attended Forest Friends
and I can not get over how amazing it was and how much fun we both had.
Annie was fab, so professional, fun and made it so personable.”
What is Forest Friends?
A taste of Forest School life for both children and parents to enjoy! This family-based playgroup allows you to see the benefits of the Forest School approach first-hand. It’s an opportunity to lose yourself in play, experiencing the joys of nature alongside your children.
With seasonally-based activities that can include nature trails, storytelling, or foraging (where we may even cook with the ingredients we find), we want our parents to feel completely involved in the Forest School experience, and encourage as much participation as possible.
When are your Forest Friends sessions?
The sessions run during term time, following Northumberland County Council’s school term calendar. Dates will be released in advance via our mailing list, Instagram, and Facebook pages.
Do you have to block book?
Block booking isn’t necessary, but we do recommend it to ensure you get all the dates you’d like and can make the most from each weekly session. Regular attendance also allows you and your child to get to know our staff and the other families!
How long are the sessions on?
The sessions run for 2 hours, 10am - 12pm. We start with a lovely woodland walk, then often head back to Camp Footprints to enjoy the activities and fun we've set out for the session. Please note, activities vary by season and weather conditions.
How much is each session?
Each session is £7.50 per session, or free for children under 1. Payment should be made via bank transfer to the account in your booking confirmation email, after you’ve chosen your preferred session. Please note, these sessions are not drop-off childcare.
“We’ve had so much fun at Forest Friends! My little boy has enjoyed
every session. Big thanks for making it so much fun.”
Where do we meet?
We meet outside the Visitor’s Centre 5 minutes before the session starts. We do a quick meet and greet, sign in, and then off we go to explore!
What age range are they for?
We welcome ages from 0 - 5 year olds. We believe nature has no age limit but understand certain activities for our Forest Friends need to be accessible for pre-school engagement and learning. We encourage new parents to join our community, engage with like-minded people, and share experiences in the great outdoors.
Is Forest Friends accessible for pushchairs?
Plessey Woods Country Park has accessible paths around the country park and pushchairs get around most places. We do like to explore around all the flora and fauna, so baby carriers are a better option for children who are just learning to walk and to help the children’s physical development through some of the trickiest terrains.
Do you have car parking and is it free?
Car parking charges are enforced by Northumberland County Council at Plessey Woods. Please be advised, wardens monitor the car park daily.
How many parents/carers can come along on one booking?
We want all the family to share the fun Forest School community we have, but we request that only 2 adults per booking attend our sessions. This is to allow lots of space for all our attendees, and ensure the correct planned ratio supervision.
What do we need to wear or bring?
Dress for the weather! Appropriate footwear (wellies or sturdy shoes are a must - parents too). When the sun is shining, don't forget your hats and sun cream! Please don’t forget your water bottles so you stay hydrated.