ABOUT
Discover Mini Foresters – A Unique Outdoor Play Experience at Batsford Arboretum. Nestled in the tranquil Batsford Arboretum, Mini Foresters offers an inspiring outdoor stay-and-play experience rooted in Forest School principles.
Here, little explorers can connect with nature, build confidence, and develop essential skills through hands-on activities in a beautiful woodland setting. From nature-based play to guided learning experiences, every session encourages curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love for the outdoors. Ready to let your child embark on a nature-filled adventure? Book your session here and explore the magic of Mini Foresters today!
Who Can Join?
Mini Foresters is designed for children aged 2-6 years who are ready to explore the wonders of the outdoors. Rain or shine, our sessions encourage little explorers to embrace nature in a picturesque woodland landscape, complete with a cozy, heated shelter for chilly days.
Forest School Sessions at Batsford Arboretum with Mini Foresters
Join us for an unforgettable Forest School session at Batsford Arboretum with Mini Foresters, where children aged 2–7 can explore, play, and learn in nature. Each session is led by our qualified Forest School instructors and combines a guided craft activity with a hands-on skill, helping little ones develop creativity, confidence, and outdoor skills.
Throughout the site, families will also discover a variety of self-led activities, perfect for parents and children to enjoy together. Our trugs are filled with magnifying glasses, binoculars, clipboards, and pens, allowing kids to choose from a selection of nature hunts and explore the arboretum at their own pace.
Children can immerse themselves in free play with our exciting outdoor features, including a mud kitchen, water wall, bird hide, den building area, miniature fairy garden, rope ladder, and hammock. Each session also includes a storybook moment, a healthy snack for the children, plus tea, coffee, and biscuits for the grown-ups.
We finish every Forest School session with a magical campfire and marshmallow toasting, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Safety and Supervision
Our qualified team of DBS-checked, first-aid certified leaders ensures a safe and supervised experience. Mini Foresters is a stay-and-play setting, meaning guardians are present and engaged in the fun while maintaining responsibility for their young explorers.
How to dress for a session
Sessions run rain or shine, so please check the forecast and dress accordingly! If severe weather like high winds or lightning is expected, we’ll notify you of any cancellations as early as possible.
To keep little foresters protected from insects, scratches, and sun exposure, we recommend covering arms and legs regardless of the temperature. Layers under waterproofs work best, as the forest floor often remains damp, particularly in the mornings. Wellies or closed-toe shoes are ideal for keeping little toes safe. Grown-up foresters should consider covering up too!
