Frequently Asked Questions.
WILL I HAVE TO TRAP AND KILL ANIMALS?
We do not teach methods of hunting and trapping birds or mammals on any of our courses. There will be game and fish preparation on our wild food courses. We love to introduce our clients to the delights of wild plants and some foraging will be a part of your course.
AM I TOUGH ENOUGH?
We teach bushcraft and warrior crafts in a friendly open manner. Our courses are outdoor education based and are there to enable our students to get the most from their time with us. We do not expect our clients to be super human. The nature of our courses requires commitment from our clients but all ages and abilities will be able to complete our programs. Your comfort and enjoyment is our primary concern. Should any aspect of the course cause concern then please do not hesitate to bring it to the attention of the team.
WILL I NEED TO SPEND A FORTUNE ON EXPENSIVE KIT?
Please do not spend a fortune on equipment. See our sample kit list. If you have any queries contact us before spending your money. Remember that although we can help with some kit we cannot loan sleeping bags.
DO I REQUIRE PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE?
You do not require any specialist training to participate in most of our courses. We have experience teaching all ages and abilities. If you have any personal skills and experiences our instructors will be happy to hear it. The Forest Knights philosophy is one of continuous personal development.
WHAT WILL I BE EATING?
The majority of our events are fully catered. We pride ourselves on the quality of our catering.You will receive three quality meals a day and a limitless supply of Tea and Coffee. We always use locally sourced produce and Fair Trade goods where possible. As part of our strong ethical stance we recycle all our waste and aim to reduce the food miles where we can.
SPECIAL DIETS?
All allergies can be catered for. However please let us know prior to the start of your event so we can source and plan a menu to meet your satisfaction. We are happy to cater for Vegetarians and Vegans.
WILL I HAVE TO EAT WILD FOODS?
The wild foods courses require the preparation of some game and fish. However we do not teach hunting techniques. Forest Knights do not force anyone to participate in any activity they are not comfortable with.
CAN I PICK MUSHROOMS?
Please do not pick any fungi without speaking to the instructors first. Mycology is a specialist subject that is only introduced on the wild food programmes. Although we will always answer any questions you may have.
CAN I BRING MY OWN ALCOHOL?
No alcohol is allowed on Forest Knight courses. We believe that alcohol and wilderness living are not compatible.
DO I HAVE TO CAMP?
Camping is normally required on all our courses, as activities will continue into the night. There is nothing better than sharing a fireside chat late into evening before retiring to sleep under the shelter of the canopy.
WHAT HAPPENS IN POOR WEATHER?
The nature of our climate means you cannot depend on a warm dry week. However we will endeavour to ensure that you get the most from your course regardless of the weather. Sometimes the elements appear to conspire against us and it is during these times that our skills must be able to sustain us. Our clients normally feel more confident in their skills in challenging weather conditions.
WHERE IS THE TOILET?
Due to the wilderness nature of courses the toilet facilities will comprise a composting toilet. A covered area for showers may also be provided. However there is no running water available and good camp hygiene will be an important part of your experience.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY COURSE IS CANCELLED?
On booking a course you will be given all the joining instructions necessary. However for reasons beyond our control occasionally we will have to cancel a course. Should this happen you will receive a full refund.
CAN I CANCEL?
Obviously you have the right to change your mind. If you cancel within 14 days you will receive a full refund. However if you cancel after this period you will lose your 50% deposit. A cancellation within 1 month the start of the course will require a loss of 100%. We advise you to take out travel insurance when booking a course.
We will take every circumstance into account and may be able to transfer your place onto a later course depending on availability etc.
CAN I BRING MY OWN CUTTING TOOLS?
Cutting tools will be provided for each students use for the duration of the course. However if you have a knife that you want to bring please speak to the team prior to the start of the course. However folding knives are not acceptable.