Little Squirrels Forest School at Thames Young Mariners

Little Squirrels Forest School
at Thames Young Mariners

Spark your child’s curiosity and love for the outdoors at our Little Squirrels Forest School sessions. Designed for toddlers aged 18 months (or walking independently) to 4 years, these fun, two-hour sessions bring children and their parent or carer together to explore, play and learn in nature.

Little Squirrels Forest School offers much more than outdoor play, helping children build confidence, independence, self-esteem and motivation while learning through exploration and discovery. Each session is unique and may include activities such as:

🐞Bug hunting
🐿️Wildlife discovery
🔥Fire lighting
🎨Crafting with natural materials
🌳Tree and plant identification
🔨and an Introduction to basic tool use.

Our woodland sites provide a safe, comfortable environment with permanent shelters allowing families to enjoy time together whatever the weather.

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Individual Forest School Sessions

Cost per child, per session: £16.00

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Autumn Term 1 Block of sessions

September - October 7 weeks. Available Wednesdays, Thursdays or Fridays

Cost per child: £87.50

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Save 25% off your first Little Squirrels session

New customers can claim a 25% discount trial session. Subject to availability. Once the form is submitted, you will be advised what dates are available to book your trial (25% off based on cost of individual Little Squirrels booking).

Claim my trial session discount

Keep up to date

Join our Little Squirrels Facebook group. You can also sign up to our Little Squirrels Forest School newsletter for information about booking release dates, offers and events.

Frequently asked questions

What should my child wear? + –

Waterproof clothing is recommended all year round to as your child is likely to get wet and muddy during free play. Expect it to be a bit cooler under the trees. Remember to look after yourselves too and wear appropriate clothing.

Do I need to bring anything else? + –

A change of clothing for your little one (just in case) and plenty of snacks.

My child just wants to play during sessions, is that okay? + –

Yes. We let the child choose their own level of participation and the instructors will support you if necessary.

What if we are running late to a session? + –

Don't worry, our instructors will be happy to see you whatever time you arrive!

Will I be able to attend with a baby as well as a toddler? + –

Yes. The youngest new-born we have had in the woods is two days old! A sling is recommended for getting around the site but you can also park pushchairs under the trees. Our instructors will support you to ensure your toddler can participate fully in the session.

Can a child that is not yet 18 months but walking take part? + –

Yes. Book your little one on so they can join in with the whole session with the support of our instructors.

Can I bring a sibling during school holidays? + –

Yes. If you want your second child to be included in the hellos, activities, fire routines and treats, you will need to book them onto the session.

Can I take photos? + –

Yes. However, we respectfully ask you to only take photos of your own children in the woods. You can share your pictures with our Little Squirrels community in our private Facebook Group. We also ask that you limit your mobile phone use to be able to enjoy each moment with your little one.

Are your staff qualified? + –

Sessions are led by qualified Forest School Leaders and Educators who are experienced in working with young children and hold enhanced DBS certification, giving parents complete peace of mind.

Where should I park? + –

Please park on Riverside Drive (free of charge) and walk into the centre. The forest school area will be on your left.

Are there toilets and baby changing facilities? + –

Yes, we have toilets and baby changing facilities at the main centre.