FAQs
Want to Know More?
Below are the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. If there is anything else you would like to know but can’t find on the website, please give us a call on 01706 814554.
Once a booking has been made, the school gains access to an online dashboard full of information about their trip. Each centre has a dedicated School Liaison who can be contacted with any other queries. Parents and carers with further questions about a Robinwood residential should contact their school, which can liaise with us on their behalf.
Who will supervise the children throughout the stay?
At Robinwood, children are supervised 24 hours a day. Qualified Group Leaders lead all activities, and every member of staff holds an enhanced DBS check. Our staff oversee mealtimes and overnight periods. Visiting teachers remain responsible for pastoral care, and we work closely with them to decide how involved they would like to be in the supervision during the visit.
What if a child has dietary requirements or allergies?
Our kitchens cater for a wide range of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal and many common allergies. Schools provide all dietary information in advance, allowing us to prepare where necessary and set up suitable meal plans for any children with complex diets. Additionally, all Robinwood centres operate a nut-free policy and avoid foods containing nuts. A member of the catering team will be designated to the trip to prepare and serve all special diet meals.
What happens if a child becomes unwell during the visit?
All Robinwood staff are first-aid trained, and if a child becomes unwell we work closely with the visiting teachers to determine and provide the most appropriate care. Each child’s personal information is accessible to the school’s Party Leader, who follows the school’s policy when deciding if and when to contact parents or the school
Can children with additional needs be supported?
We work closely with schools to understand and accommodate any medical, emotional, physical or accessibility needs. A range of resources can be provided both before and during the trip to support individual children. We can also offer preview visits to the centre if a pre-visit would be helpful, and in some cases, we may recommend one to ensure the best possible experience.
What if the weather is bad?
Each Robinwood centre has excellent indoor facilities to minimise the impact of extreme weather. Over 50% of our activities already take place indoors. If an activity becomes unsafe due to weather, a suitable alternative activity will be provided to ensure the children continue to have a full and enjoyable experience.
Can the children bring mobile phones/tablets/electronic devices?
For safeguarding reasons, children are not permitted to bring mobile phones, tablets, or other electronic devices to Robinwood. If a child does have one, it must be handed to a teacher for the duration of the trip. Teachers may use their own devices in line with their school’s policies. Parents wishing to contact their child should do so through the school, as the level of access for calls or messages is determined by the school. Robinwood does not provide access to phones for children.
Can a child be accommodated in a dormitory on their own?
For safeguarding reasons, children cannot be accommodated in a dormitory on their own. If this is necessary, please discuss the situation with your Robinwood School Liaison to explore possible arrangements.
What happens if a child has a birthday whilst at Robinwood?
Birthdays are always celebrated at Robinwood, and we provide a birthday cake large enough for the entire school party. For safety and allergy reasons, we do not allow cakes supplied by the school or from home, ensuring that all food provided or consumed at our centres complies with our allergen procedures.
What if a child doesn’t want to take part in an activity?
At Robinwood, we take a child-centred approach to all activities. While children are encouraged to try new experiences, no one is ever forced to take part. Each activity is designed to involve every child at a level they feel comfortable with—for example, using belaying safety ropes. Children are supported by the same Group Leader throughout all activities, helping to build trust and consistent support, which encourages them to try new things and grow in confidence.
What should the children bring to Robinwood?
A full Kit List is available on the Dashboard, detailing everything they will need to pack and includes a tick list for the children themselves to use. We recommend children help to pack for their residential to limit the chance of lost property occurring. All bedding, food and snacks are provided by Robinwood.
Do you cater for fussy eaters?
Our menu is balanced and filling, ensuring all children are fuelled for the day’s activities. If a child does not like an item on the menu, there are always alternatives available. The catering team works directly with the child and a teacher to ensure they select meals they will enjoy. Children choose all their meals for the entire trip on the first day, giving them peace of mind so they can focus on having fun. Schools can speak to their School Liaison ahead of the trip if a child may need extra support or preparation with their meal choices.
Can we arrange a visit to the centre in advance with a child?
We are happy to arrange visits to the centre in advance with the school. These visits can help support a child ahead of the trip, identify any reasonable adjustments that may be needed, or allow the school to carry out any additional risk assessments beyond those we already provide.