Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Cheshire Forest School?
Our woodland is located by walking from where we park on Novia Scotia Lane in the village of Marton. The postcode of CW8 2DD brings you to Novia Scotia Lane and you need to follow the lane to the end where there is a metal gate and two stone boulders. If you use the 'what3words' app then the meeting location would be “nation.engraving.quibble”
There is a 10 min walk to the woodland and there are clear, staked, way markers displaying our logo which lead you to the woodland entrance. We advise that parents use buggies or trikes for younger children and the paths are suitable for these. Once you have made a booking, a map and more detailed instructions are included in the booking confirmation.
What about the weather?
​As a wise woodsman once said, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing (more on clothing below). Our events/sessions are designed to be equally enjoyable come rain or shine. The woodland has a parachute over basecamp which offers shelter from the rain. In the event of very strong winds or overhead lightning we would cancel the session and notify you by email. Events/sessions will continue to run unless deemed unsafe by Cheshire Forest School so please do turn up with appropriate clothing and an adventurous spirit!
What should I wear?
· Wellingtons or walking boots
· Long trousers and tops are required, even when the weather is warm (for safety reasons)
· Layers in the colder months (base layer, mid layer and jumper)
· Waterproof jacket and trousers
· Warm hat and gloves or cap/sunhat in the summer
· A change of clothes (is often useful in wet weather)
What about food?
For birthday parties, we provide marshmallows on sticks as part of the activity. You’re very welcome to bring any other food you’d like with you too. We recommend a tub of pre-cooked sausages kept warm in a flask, some bread rolls and squirty ketchup. And of course a birthday cake too!
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Forest Folk School holiday clubs may also include an element of campfire cooking, but this is not substitute lunch. Participants should bring a packed lunch each day with enough sustenance to see them through a physical day in the outdoors! Please bring a full water bottle too.
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For Little Forest Folk sessions, snacks and drinks should be brought for the children. Hot drinks for grown ups are provided but we ask that you bring a travel mug along with you.
Who will lead the event?
Sessions are led by Caroline, who has 20 years experience as a Primary School teacher and holds her Level 3 Forest School Qualification. She is supported by Niamh who is a trainee teacher and other D of E young leaders. Both Caroline and Niamh have enhanced DBS certificates and Caroline has a First Aid for Forest School and Paediatrics Qualification.
Is it safe?
Cheshire Forest School events can involve bushcraft, woodland play, campfire cooking, crafts and more, and are all conducted in a dynamic woodland setting. There is therefore inevitably a risk of injury when undertaking such activities. Cheshire Forest School have taken all reasonably practicable steps to mitigate these risks, and we regularly review our systems and practices to ensure that we conduct these activities as safely as possible. Our woodland site and activities have all been risk assessed and all appropriate control measures put in place, including first aid qualified staff with appropriate kits available at all times. Our site safety handbook contains a comprehensive list of policies and procedures to keep participants safe whilst supporting the developmental aims of our sessions.
Do we have insurance?
Yes, we have Public Liability insurance up to £5,000,000, underwritten by Lloyds
Do I need to fill in any paperwork?
For events/sessions booked online, you will provide us with all the necessary information and sign the risk declaration during that process. For birthday parties, school visits and other events which are booked by contacting us, we will provide you with the necessary booking and consent forms.
Are there any toilets on site?
Yes, we have a camping style toilet and sink housed in our shelter. In addition we have a handwashing station in the woodland with water, soap and hand towels.
What about medical conditions/special needs?
We strive to make our events as inclusive as possible and always do our best to accommodate individuals’ specific needs. If you or someone in your group has a medical condition or special needs then please contact us to discuss this further.
What is your cancellation policy?
Little Forest Folk sessions, Forest Folk after school and holiday clubs must be paid for in full at the time of booking. Our cancellation policy is slightly different for parties and individual events. Please do check our terms & conditions of booking for more information.
In the event of inclement weather or other wild factors, it will be at Cheshire Forest School’s sole discretion as to whether an event is cancelled. This will only occur if there is a safety risk. In these circumstances Cheshire Forest School will offer either an alternative session/date where possible, or a full refund.