Summer Camp FAQ's

What age group is camp suitable for?

Summer camp is suitable for young people aged 8 to 15. Participants are in activity groups and share accommodation with others of a similar age. Participants of all ages come together for meal times, free time and evening activities.

What will my child need to bring with them to camp?

We will send you a recommended kit list with everything your child needs for camp. Please ensure your child's kit is labelled with their name.

What is the accommodation like?

We have a range of timber and canvas structures- a yurt, tipi, medieval tent, traditional bell tent, geo-dome and an upturned boat hull. The accommodation is spacious with circular structures measuring 5m in diameter. Each sleeps between 4 to 6 children in single sex groups. The structures are arranged in a circle around a central space and sit on decking to ensure a dry and pleasant camping experience! 

What kind of food do you serve at camp?

All meals are home-cooked from scratch and prepared with fresh ingredients, sourced from local suppliers and organic where possible. We also grow much of our own fruit and veg right here at camp in our thriving food garden and children are involved in the tending to, harvesting and preparation of produce during their stay. 

Do you cater for special dietary needs?

Yes, we are experienced in catering for a wide range of dietary requirements and will ensure that your child's needs are fully met. Four weeks prior to the start of camp we will send you a link to our online medical and dietary form where you can let us know of any dietary requirements and requests.

Getting to camp

How can we travel to camp?

As part of our commitment to sustainability we encourage the use of public transport and depending on your location, it is possible to arrive at Camp Kernow by train, bus, coach, or even by boat! We can also escort your child from London Paddington Station on the morning of camp and accompany them back afterwards. We make a small charge to do so of £40 each way plus the cost of the train ticket which we will book. Children travelling by train should bring a packed lunch.

What time should I drop off my child?

Drop-off directly at camp is usually early afternoon to coincide with the train arrival from London. The exact drop-off time of your child's camp will be confirmed in the Environmental Adventure Pack you will receive. 

Drop off in London is usually between 09:00 and 10:00. The meeting time and point will be confirmed a little nearer the time.

while at camp

Can I speak to my child during camp?

We have a daily updated blog with photos (where photo permission is given) to keep parents posted on life at camp. If you would like to arrange a time to speak with your child during their time at camp please let us know and we can arrange a suitable time to do so.

What happens if my child feels homesick?

Hosting such small groups of children, we find that the family atmosphere here at camp helps children feel at home and less likely to suffer from a bout of homesickness. Each group at camp have two dedicated younger members of the Camp Kernow team aged 18-24 who take on a 'big brother/sister' role, providing support and keeping an eye out for any children who they think might be missing home. We begin camp with lots of icebreakers and team games so children quickly feel comfortable with, and get to know their fellow campers. 

Health & safety

How can I let you know about my child’s medical condition?

We will ask you to provide us with details of any medical conditions which we should be aware of. We will call you to discuss medical conditions in more detail if they are of a serious nature e.g. severe allergic reaction/anaphylaxis. We will also liaise with you regarding any medication which your child is required to take during their stay. We will store this medication securely where appropriate and administer as required. Camp Kernow staff are first aid trained and accident and emergency procedures are in place to ensure the highest standards of care and safety for your child.

What is your safeguarding policy?

All staff, visiting instructors and volunteers hold a Disclosure and Barring Service check (or their countries equivalent if from another country) ensuring their suitability to work with children. They also adhere to camp’s Child Protection Policy which is available on request.

What training & qualifications do your staff & instructors have?

All activity instructors hold the relevant NGB qualifications where applicable. With activities such as Wild Food Foraging, Forging & Animal Tracking which don’t necessarily come with required qualifications we bring in expert instructors in their field on a freelance basis who are solely specialised in one activity to ensure children have access to expert instruction and guidance.

All activities are risk assessed and each activity delivered by Camp Kernow has written operating procedures in place. Camp Kernow staff hold First Aid in the Outdoors qualifications and accident and emergency procedures are maintained. We also hold Public Liability Insurance of five million. 

Please do call us on 01872 885779 if you have any further questions or would like to talk in more detail.