Two experienced childminders from West Bridgford are preparing to launch a new Forest School childcare setting in Cotgrave Woods, offering young children a fully outdoor learning environment.
The new venture, Robin Wood Forest Childminders, is the result of a long-held ambition shared by the founders (Katy Burgess and Caroline Crew), who have worked closely together since 2007. The setting will cater for children from six months up to school age and is scheduled to officially open in September 2026.
Katy began her career as a qualified NNEB practitioner, working as a senior teaching assistant in inner-city state nurseries. She later completed a BA (Hons) Degree in Education (Early Years) and became a home-based childminder in 2005, following the birth of her four daughters (including triplets). A strong passion for outdoor learning has remained central to her childcare practice throughout her career.
Caroline entered child minding from a business background in the NHS and brings extensive experience volunteering with Girl Guiding and scouts spending many years training children and adults in camping and wood craft She has a particular interest in special educational needs having a level 3 qualification (SEN) and holds a Level 6 paediatric sleep practitioner qualification.
In December 2025, the pair purchased a 2.5-acre woodland site, located just a 13-minute drive from the centre of West Bridgford. The woodland has been fully risk assessed and prepared to support a safe and enriching Forest School environment. As Ofsted-registered childminders, the team will follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and children will benefit from the flexibility of smaller group sizes which facilitate a tailored curriculum. The Forest School approach places nature at the heart of learning, supporting children’s physical development, problem-solving skills, resilience, independence, creativity, and emotional wellbeing.
Katy and Caroline also emphasise the importance of teaching kindness, empathy, good manners, and respect for others—values they believe are sometimes overlooked but essential in society.
Robin Wood Forest Childminders will care for eight to ten children per day, operating from 7.30am to 5.15pm, Monday to Thursday during term time, with additional holiday provision spread across approximately 15 days during school holidays. Holiday care for school-aged children will also be available.
The setting will accept government-funded 30 hours childcare, as well as Tax-Free Childcare. Both providers hold full childminder and specialist Forest School insurance, enhanced DBS checks, paediatric first aid certificates, and are currently completing Level 3 Forest School Leader training.
The Robin Wood Forest Childminders founders say they feel fortunate to be able to combine their love of the outdoors with caring for and supporting young children’s development.
Families interested in learning more or booking a place are encouraged to get in touch with Katy on 07817 972321 or Caroline on 07813 090333.
You can follow our social media channels on Facebook or Instagram at Robin Wood Forest Childminders
