Weather policy

Purpose

At Kids Go Wild Forest School our aim is to provide safe, enjoyable, and enriching outdoor learning in all seasons. Outdoor play offers children huge developmental benefits, but being outside year-round also carries some risks. This policy explains:

• What clothing and kit children need to be safe and comfortable.
   

• How we use shelters and adapt activities in different weather.
   

• When sessions may need to be shortened or cancelled for safety.
   

Clothing & Equipment

To enjoy outdoor learning safely, children must come properly dressed. Parents/carers are responsible for ensuring children arrive in suitable clothing for the season.
 

All Year

• Robust waterproof coat & trousers (not showerproof – must withstand persistent rain).
   

• A full change of clothes.
   

• Wellies, crocs, or waterproof shoes.
   

Summer

• Closed-toe walking shoes/trainers/crocs.
   

• Lightweight long-sleeve top and trousers.
   

• Jumper for cooler weather.
   

• Suncream (SPF 30–50) applied before the session. And a bottle sent with the child, by sending you give permission for staff to re-apply, please clearly name your child’s suncream.
   

• Plenty of water.
   

Autumn & Winter

• Warm waterproof gloves and hat.
   

• Insulated boots (snow boots preferred, not standard wellies).
   

• Easy fastenings (Velcro > laces).
   

• Multiple warm layers: vest, thermal top & bottoms, fleece jumper, joggers.
   

• Snowsuit / ski trousers / fleece-lined waterproofs.
   

• Warm food/drink in a thermos + water.
   

Recommended suppliers:
 

• Lidl Lupilu waterproofs (seasonal stock)
   

• Decathlon ski range
   

• Didriksons outdoor wear
   

• Kids Go Wild also sells a selection of recommended kit
   

Please note: Without appropriate kit, your child may become cold, wet, or unwell. We may raise concerns about unsuitable clothing if it affects your child’s wellbeing or placement with us. We also ask if your  child is in nappies that the nappies you provide are strap nappies rather than pull ups for ease with changing.
 

Shelters on Site

We use a variety of shelters to help children stay safe in sun, rain, or wind:
 

• Tree canopy cover
   

• Parachute/tarp shelters
   

• Gazebos with sides
   

• Outdoor classroom/stretch tents
   

• Large polytunnel
   

Supporting Children in Different Weathers

• Some children may resist outdoor clothing or shelters due to sensory needs. Staff will support these children sensitively and work with parents on strategies.
   

• If a child remains very distressed by the cold despite support, parents may be asked to collect them early.
   

• We will work together with families to review kit and strategies for future sessions.

Severe Weather Closures

For safety, sessions may be shortened or cancelled in the following circumstances:
 

• High Winds: If sustained wind speeds reach Beaufort Scale 7 (32+ mph, considering gusts), sessions will be cancelled.
   

• Lightning: Sessions cancelled.
   

• Extreme Heat (28°C+): Sessions may be shortened or cancelled due to heat exhaustion risk. Due to the nature of our sites and little shade/being unable to keep the children still and cool.
   

• Severe Cold (-5°C or lower): Sessions may close. Where possible, we will implement our Outings Policy and visit an indoor venue (e.g. library/football club indoor space) until conditions improve.
   

• Flooding / site damage: Sessions may be cancelled for safety.
   

Decisions are based primarily on Met Office forecasts, with other reliable sources considered. Families will be updated the evening before, or as soon as possible, if conditions are uncertain – please check phones/famly app/email before travelling.
 

Emergency evacuation procedures will always be in place.
 

Fees & Refunds

• If sessions are cancelled or cut short due to extreme weather, refunds will not be given (see Fees Policy).
   

• We only close in exceptional circumstances and always aim to keep sessions running where safe.
   

• For Stay & Play, parties, holiday club, and weekend family sessions, we will reschedule to another suitable date.
   

By keeping children well-equipped and following these guidelines, we can make sure every child enjoys the full benefits of outdoor learning – safely and happily – in all weathers.