Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a visit can be challenging so we have put together some frequently asked questions, which may make your planning process a little easier.

Do you have public liability insurance?
As part of Derbyshire County Council, Lea Green has public liability insurance
Do you have a licence for activities?
As an outdoor education and learning centre delivering adventurous activities, we are required by law to be inspected and accessed by the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) on the safety and quality of our provision. Our licence number is L14111/R1598
Are you only available for people in Derbyshire?
Lea Green welcomes people from all over the world.
Do you change activities due to bad weather?
If there are safety implications linked to weather, programmes are amended and changed to a safe alternative. However, we deliver outdoor adventurous activities, so sessions will still take place in the rain and snow. It is only when there is a safety concern that we consider alternatives.
What’s your advice on valuable items?
We prefer for valuables to be left at home and advise against wearing new clothing. Any items brought to the centre will be held at the individual’s own risk and the centre will not be held responsible should they become lost or damaged.
Are you first aid trained?
All our instructors hold a 16-hour ITC Level 3 Outdoor First Aid qualification.
What should parents/guardians do regarding medical conditions and illnesses?
Consent forms are required to be filled out by all participating individuals, which has a field for medical information. We ask that as much information is provided about any medical conditions, illnesses or medication your child takes. If your child develops an illness whilst at Lea Green, we will access the severity of the situation, which may include phoning parents to discuss the illness, providing support, asking a parent / guardian to collect their child, arranging transport home, or seeking professional medical advice/help.
Do you provide carers / support workers?
Our instructors are very experienced; however, we do not provide personal care and request that carers, support workers or family members come along if a participant requires this.
Do you lend equipment?
We can provide a limited number of waterproofs and wellies whilst individuals are at Lea Green. All specialist PPE required for activities is provided by the centre.
How secure is Lea Green?
To ensure the security of our visitors all doors to access buildings have a key code, which is changed weekly. All visitors must report to reception on arrival. Gates to the site can be closed and locked.
Do any Lea Green staff stay overnight?
Most residential groups will have a Lea Green instructor stay overnight in the main house.
Can we come and have a look around before we book?
Yes of course but please call and pre-book this.

Food

What food can we expect?
Menus are sent out to groups prior to their arrival, so you will know what to expect. Typically, breakfast will include cereal, toast, and a hot option such as: pancakes or sausages and beans for example. Lunch typically includes assorted filled cobs, fruit, crisps and a pudding. Whereas evening meals could include a chicken dinner, pasta bolognaise or curry for example.

All our food is served as a family style service for schools, which allows for individuals to choose what goes on their plates. But do not worry alternative options can be made if necessary.
Do you cater for special diets?
Yes. We cater for all allergies and intolerances. Please Note: Halal diets will be offered vegetarian options as an alternative.

Please inform us of any dietary requirements on your booking or consent form. Please Note: we can not always fulfil brand specific requests, please feel free to discuss this with the team.

How to Pay

You can make a payment to the centre by:

Debit Card – call the centre on 01629 534561
Cheque – payable to ‘Derbyshire County Council’
Cash – payable at the centre Monday-Friday 9am-5pm

Children and Young People

What should I expect when I get to Lea Green?
As you come up the drive, the first thing you will see is our stunning house. You will be greeted by one of our activity instructors, who will make you feel very welcome and assist you throughout the course of your stay, whether it’s a day visit or residential. Your visit will be packed full of brilliant activities – all we ask is that you try your hardest, help your friends and have lots of fun.
What if I miss home?
For lots of children and young people, this is their first time away from home and we understand that staying in a new place can be a little scary. Please don’t worry. Your teachers and welcoming Lea Green staff will be on hand if you’re missing home a bit, and before long you will be back to enjoying activities again.
What are the bedrooms like?
Your bedroom will have bunk beds in them, which means you will be having a sleep over with some of your best friends.
What should I pack?
Our kit list can be found here.
Is there anything I should leave at home?
We prefer for you to leave electronic and valuable items at home, and we advise against packing new or light colour clothing for activities. Any items brought to the centre will be held at the individual’s own risk and the centre will not be held responsible should they be lost or damaged.

Parents

What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation for children and young people is in a warm, comfortable, and safe environment. There are dormitory style bedrooms with bunk beds and shared bathroom facilities. Most rooms are in the main house – a 19^th century mansion.

Boys and girls sleeping areas are split. Bed linen is provided, but you will need to bring your own towel.
Will my child be able to call home during their stay?
We don’t encourage phone calls home, as we have found that this can make children a little homesick. But if an agreement is made prior to the visit between teachers and parents to make a phone call, this will be adhered to. Teachers will however contact parents if there are any illnesses, injuries, or behavioural issues.
Should my child take pocket money with them?
We have a tuck shop on site, where children can buy sweets, chocolates and souvenirs and we allow children to bring a small amount to spend here. The amount of money allowed is usually determined by the school or group.
Is there anything my child shouldn’t bring?
We prefer for electronic and valuable items to be left at home, and we advise against packing new or light colour clothing for activities. Any items brought to the centre will be held at the individual’s own risk and the centre will not be held responsible should they be lost or damaged.

Schools and Groups

Can we have a look around first?
We encourage schools and groups to visit Lea Green prior to their stay. It gives you a good chance to view the accommodation and activities we have to offer, as well as get answers to any questions you may have. Please ensure you pre book a site visit first.
Are your staff first aid trained?
All our instructors hold a 16-hour ITC Level 3 Outdoor First Aid qualification.
Do we have to pay for teachers to come?
Teachers are charged for food costs only.
Is there anything I shouldn’t bring?
We prefer for electronic and valuable items to be left at home, and we advise against packing new or light colour clothing for activities. Any items brought to the centre will be held at the individual’s own risk and the centre will not be held responsible should they be lost or damaged.
Will I be able to make phone calls whilst at Lea Green?
Visiting staff are welcome to use their mobile phones at Lea Green, but signal can be a bit hit and miss, so you will have access to our landlines in the visiting staff room.
Do you have internet access?
Yes. There is a computer in the visiting staff room with internet access. However, we also have guest Wi-Fi that you can use, but this is limited to spaces on the ground floor.

Additional Needs

Can we have a look around first?
We encourage people to visit Lea Green and Meadow Lodge if it’s their first stay with us. This allows you to see all our facilities for yourself and gives you the chance to ask any questions. For some people with additional needs, a visit beforehand can be the reassurance needed before a residential with us. A visit may also be the inspiration needed and will give you the option to see some of our accessible activities that you may not have previously considered.
Can we come as a family?
Our specialist accommodation Meadow Lodge is perfect for families to enjoy short breaks or holidays.
Do you provide carers / support workers?
Our instructors are very experienced; however, we do not provide personal care and request that carers, support workers or family members come along if a participant requires this.
Are you available for people without disabilities or additional needs?
Meadow Lodge is available to accommodate children and adults with disabilities or additional needs, along with family and friends. We often find that siblings, friends, and family members wish to take part in the activities alongside those with additional needs.
Are adults able to come?
We welcome adults and children both with and without additional needs.
Are you only available for people in Derbyshire?
We are available for everyone, everywhere, and welcome groups of different sizes, ages, and abilities.
Can we self-cater?
Meadow Lodge has a large catering kitchen, which you are welcome to use, whether self-catered or not.
Do you provide bedding?
Bedding is provided. Laundry facilities are also available to use in Meadow Lodge. You just need to bring your own towels.
Are your staff first aid trained?
All our instructors hold a 16-hour ITC Level 3 Outdoor First Aid qualification.
Do you lend out any equipment?
All equipment within Meadow Lodge is available for use. Additional equipment including waterproofs, wellies and wheelchair cosies can also be provided. All specialist PPE required for activities is provided by the centre.
Do you have accessible transport?
No
Do you have internet access?
Free Wi-Fi is available within Meadow Lodge.
Do any of your staff stay overnight?
Most residential groups will have a Lea Green instructor stay overnight in the main house.
Is there anything I shouldn’t bring?
We prefer for electronic and valuable items to be left at home, and we advise against packing new or light colour clothing for activities. Any items brought to the centre will be held at the individual’s own risk and the centre will not be held responsible should they be lost or damaged.
Will I be able to make phone calls?
Visiting staff are welcome to use their mobile phones at Lea Green, but signal can be a bit hit and miss, so you will have access to our landlines in the control room.
Do we have to pay for teachers / support worker to come?
Teachers and support workers are charged for food costs only.

Meetings and Conferences

How many people can your meeting / conference room hold?
The conference room can accommodate up to 20 delegates, whilst the meeting room can accommodate up to 16 delegates.
Do you provide any equipment?
The meeting room and conference room include a 75-inch smart TV, flipchart, and access to WIFI.
Can we have lunch included in our meeting?
We can offer catering for your meetings, whether it’s a hot buffet style lunch, a sit-down meal or packed lunch. You can also choose to have hot drinks provided throughout the day.
Do you have Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi can be used in communal spaces, meeting rooms and conference rooms.
Can the rooms be re-arranged?
Rooms can be re-arranged, but this may affect the number of people the rooms can hold.
Do you provide free parking?
We have ample parking spaces next to the main house.

Sports clubs and events

Can I book facilities for a one-off event?
You can book our sports hall or grounds, depending on your sporting event.
Can I book facilities for long term projects?
Our facilities are available to be booked on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.
Do you provide any equipment?
We have limited equipment for events. Please enquire when booking.