Learning at Epping Forest

What makes us a great choice for education?

Epping Forest, ‘London’s greatest forest’ is a unique learning environment. This ancient forest is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) providing around 2500 hectares of amazing habitats and living history at your fingertips. Discover its hidden secrets and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life with one of our inspirational and engaging educational sessions. 

Accreditation and Awards

Watch this space, in 2020 we are extending our current LOtC accreditation which just covers Hampstead Heath education programme to include the Epping Forest learning programme.

What is typically included on our school trips?

We offer a range of session from EYs to Years 8 (UK) covering many different topics including:

• Tudors.
• Prehistory Epping (Stone age to Iron Age).
• Orienteering (Maps and compasses) with a historical twist.
• Habitats.
• Natural art.

Our sessions our 2 hrs long, we aim to agree on learning objectives with teachers before the session and adapt to different learning styles and abilities.

Group Sizes Catered For

30 students per session.

2 sessions can be run per day.

Materials, Resources & Information Provided

We provide all session materials and resources.

No online or extra resources unless requested.

Photography, Filming & Audio Restrictions

No restrictions.

Risk Assessment Details

We provide risk assessments on confirmation of booking. All trip leaders are encouraged to come for a site visit before the session.

Education Officer Information

For further information about booking a session please contact us.

Tel: 0208 529 6607

E-mail: epping.learning@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Pricing Information

State schools:

£99 per session (2 hours) max. 30 students, adults are free.

Independent schools:

£129 per session (2 hours) max. 30 students, adults are free.

Need help with costs for the visit?

Apply to the Culture Mile School Visits Fund for a grant of up to £300 to help with the cost of a visit to Epping Forest or a wide variety of other inspiring venues in the Culture Mile Learning partnership.

Clothing Requirements

Both students and adults should be suitably dressed for outdoor learning. We believe there is no such thing as bad weather to enjoy the outdoors, but unsuitable clothing can put a damper on any trip.

For cold/wet weather: wear sturdy (waterproof) shoes, warm layers and waterproofs if it looks like rain is forecasted. 

For hot/sunny weather: wear sturdy shoes (NO open toe sandals), hat and sun scream.

First Aid Information

Our education staff are first aid trained and are supported by a wider team. We would always recommend bringing a first aider when bringing children out of the classroom.

Available Facilities

Our main learning base is the Epping Forest visitor center at Chingford (also known as The View). We have public toilets, hand washing facilities, lunchroom (on request), a water fountain, an exhibition area and small shop on site. In the wider area, Butlers Café and plenty of open woodland space for games and playtime. 

Accessibility & Disabled Facilities

No.

Opening Hours & Information

School sessions take place throughout the working week (Monday to Friday) all year round. We can run two session a day, AM (10am – 12noon) and PM (12.30pm – 2.30pm), with evening sessions on request. Please note that on Mondays the Epping Forest visitor center at Chingford is closed so the exhibition and shop will not be available.