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Please contact us for more information or to enquire about a booking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

How old should children be to join an education session?
We welcome children from age 3 and up. Our EYFS area at the Bunkhouse is designed to be safe and engaging -perfect for storytelling, den-building, and minibeast hunting. Please note that access to the woodland involves some walking.

Can we arrange a pre-visit?
Yes! Just get in touch and we’ll schedule a convenient time for you.

How much does a visit cost?
A full-day session costs approximately £5 per child. Pricing is based on group size:

• £150 for one class (around 30 children)

• £300 for two classes, and so on
  All adults attend free of charge.

Can we pay by cheque?
Yes, cheque payments are accepted.

Are there discounts for National Trust or NT Education members?
No. Fraxini operates independently under a license from the National Trust, so discounts do not apply.

What is your cancellation policy?

• More than 48 hours' notice: Full refund or option to reschedule

• Less than 48 hours' notice: No refund, but rescheduling is still possible

What if Fraxini cancels the visit?
In the unlikely event that we need to cancel, we’ll offer a full refund or help you re-book.

Can we get a risk assessment?
Yes, just let us know and we’ll send it over.

What safeguarding measures are in place?
All Fraxini staff are DBS-checked. The Bunkhouse is secure and not open to the public - gates are closed during school visits and doors are locked while in the woods. Activities are risk assessed. Please inform us of any special safeguarding needs your group may have.
Note: Ashridge may not be suitable for children who may run off unexpectedly.

What happens if it rains or is very windy?

• High winds: Ashridge may close, and we’ll cancel sessions accordingly.

• Rain: We adapt the session to keep children dry and safe. Indoor space and wet-weather activities are available, but we do go out in the rain—so please come prepared!

Bunkhouse Facilities

Is there a secure place for bags and lunches?
Yes, the Bunkhouse is locked while we're in the woods. However, please avoid leaving valuables behind.

Is coach parking available?
Yes, one coach can park on-site. The coach and driver are welcome to stay all day.

Is there a phone number for the Bunkhouse?
Not currently—we’re working on this with the National Trust.

Is there mobile signal at the Bunkhouse?
Yes, but signal can be patchy due to the rural location.

Is there a shop?
Not at the Bunkhouse itself, but we can arrange for small items (e.g. pencils, bookmarks) from the National Trust shop.

Can the public access the Bunkhouse?
No. The Bunkhouse is on private land with no public footpaths, and gates are kept closed.

Is there a changing table?
Not yet. However, there is a private room next to the toilet where a mat can be placed on the floor.

Is there a café?
No, but we offer complimentary tea or coffee for adults at lunchtime and can refill water bottles.

Can we bring ice lollies for hot days?
Yes! You’re welcome to bring pre-frozen treats - we’ll store them in our freezer. Just let us know in advance.

What should we do with rubbish?
As there’s no bin collection, we ask that you take all rubbish back with you. We do have spare bin bags if needed.

Are trained first aiders on-site?
Sometimes, but visiting schools are responsible for their own first aid provision.

Activities & Curriculum

What workshops do you offer?
Our sessions support KS1 and KS2 science (Green Plants and Animals, including Humans), natural art and den building (linked to D&T). Contact us for a full information pack.

Can activities be tailored to our topic?
Absolutely! We’re all qualified teachers - just let us know your theme and we’ll adapt the day where possible.

How long do activities last?
Activities are open-ended and follow the children’s engagement levels - anything from 5 to 30 minutes.

Do you offer pond dipping?
No, we no longer have access to a pond near the Bunkhouse.

Can we do a self-led visit to Ashridge?
No. The National Trust asks that self-led school visits go to Dunstable Downs instead.

Can we climb the Monument?
Yes, but it requires a 2-mile round trip and advance booking is essential.

Why do we stay in one woodland area?
To protect Ashridge’s delicate ecosystem. The National Trust limits group activity to areas like Rail Copse, which contains non-native trees and is earmarked for replanting. Learn more via the Protecting Our Roots section on the Ashridge Estate website.

Do you offer pre-visit or classroom resources?
We can provide:

• A timetable

• Photos of the Bunkhouse and woodland to support preparation

• Post-visit ideas for classroom use
  Note: Teaching resources are currently limited.