Information regarding recent developments at Bader College and Herstmonceux Castle. (20/11/2023)

Recently, we have learned about a number of structural issues at the Castle requiring immediate attention, including repairs needed to the south wall of the building. A structural engineer visited the Castle two weeks ago and confirmed that the situation is more serious than previously understood.
As a result, portions of the Castle have closed to ensure the health and safety of students, staff, and faculty, and out of an abundance of caution, all operations at the Castle have been suspended. Academic programming at Bader College has moved online until the end of the fall term, and students will continue their studies in January at the Kingston, Ontario, campus of Queen’s University in Canada. Bader College staff and professionals from Queen’s University are working very hard to ensure a smooth transition for all involved.
Bader College continues to assess the situation and the full extent of the work needed, but it is clear at this point that repairs to the Castle will take at least 12-18 months. Additionally, a complete survey of other areas of the Castle will be undertaken in late January/early February.
We realise this may be distressing news for many within the local community, and those with close ties to Bader College and the Castle. As much as possible, we will keep you informed about ongoing developments at the Castle.

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Herstmonceux Castle Forest School


Herstmonceux Castle Forest School

Forestry School is great for community groups, infant schools, primary schools, secondary schools or birthday parties.

Whether you are looking for a term time experience, holiday and half term activities, or a special event to celebrate a child’s birthday, Forest School is an inspirational process that offers all learners opportunities to achieve and develop confidence through hands-on experiences in a woodland environment.

We promote holistic development of ALL involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners. Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and themselves.

You will have the opportunity to revisit, engage and foster a love for the wonderful ancient woodland at Herstmonceux Castle over a period of six or more sessions.

The experience includes campfire building, lighting and management, campfire cooking, tool work, using greenwood to make wooden objects, den and shelter building, foraging, nature games, nature education and much more.

  • community groups, pre-school, primary and secondary schools
  • Holiday and half term woodland activity sessions
  • Birthday parties
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Discover more about the freedom of learning outside the classroom and our forest school opportunities for local schools and community groups.

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About Us

As a result of our passion for forest school and the social, emotional wellbeing and educational role it can offer, we are starting an exciting new forest school project at Herstmonceux Castle. It will be commencing at the end of October and as well as offering forest school to local schools, we are keen to broaden access for local community groups, mental health projects and services for families and young people.

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