South Queensferry
Little Bugs at Abercorn
Lower Parkhead, South Queensferry, EH30 9SL
Welcome to Wild Bugs
Wild Bugs is a alternative outdoor primary education programme set within the beautiful grounds of Hopetoun Estate. Registered with the Care Inspectorate, we provide day care for children aged 5–12 years in a rich outdoor learning environment where curiosity, adventure and imagination can flourish through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
At Wild Bugs, we believe children learn best when they are free to explore, discover and connect with the natural world. Through nature-based education, child-led learning and learning through nature, children develop confidence, resilience, creativity and independence while building a lifelong love of learning. Our outdoor education approach encourages children to take appropriate risks, solve real-world problems and develop strong social and emotional skills in a supportive environment.
Wild Bugs offers an alternative learning environment for families seeking outdoor primary education, flexi-schooling in Scotland or home education support. Designed to complement rather than replace traditional schooling, our programme provides a flexible and nurturing space where children can learn at their own pace through experiential learning and outdoor learning for primary children.
While we are not registered as an independent school, we support families exploring alternative education in Scotland by following the principles of Curriculum for Excellence (CfE). Children's progress is observed, monitored and documented through meaningful experiences, reflections and individual learning journeys rather than formal assessments or tests. Through our child-centred approach, we create opportunities for children to thrive within a dynamic outdoor school community that values wellbeing, curiosity and a deep connection with nature.
What is Wild Bugs?
Hear from us, our families and, most importantly, our children about how getting back to basics, embracing nature and kindergarten stage at Wild Bugs can support your child's education!
Upcoming Events
Wild Bugs Open Evening - June 15th 2026
Register hereBenefits of Wild Bugs
Access to Outdoors
Children spend significant time in natural environments, which supports physical health, mental well-being, and sensory development. • Outdoor learning fosters resilience, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Interdisciplinary/ Project Based Learning
Learning is connected across subjects through real-world projects, making education more meaningful and engaging. Encourages collaboration, curiosity, and critical thinking as children explore topics in depth.
Informal learning
Children learn in a relaxed, low pressure environment that supports natural curiosity. Learning is embedded in play and real-life experiences, making it more relevant and enjoyable.
Hand Over Hand Learning
Provides practical, hands-on experiences that support skill development and deeper understanding. Ideal for children with additional support needs, as it allows for scaffolded learning at their own pace.
Holistic Development
Supports emotional well-being, social skills, and resilience alongside academic learning. Encourages self-regulation, independence, and a love for lifelong learning.
Fees & Information
Fees
Wild Bugs will cost £43 per session. Wrap around care will cost £8.25 per hour.
Sessions
Wild Bugs spaces are available Wednesday to Friday, 9am - 3pm, term time only for children of Primary 1 to Primary 3 age. We have spaces on Mondays, 9am - 3pm, term time only for children of Primary 4 to Primary 7 age. Wrap around care is available from 8am - 9am and 3pm - 4, 5 & 6pm.
Spaces and Ratios
There will be 16 Wild Bugs spaces available each day. (Monday - 8 to 12 years - Wednesday, Thursday & Friday - 5 to 8 years) Wild Bugs operates with a staff to child ratio of 1 adult to 8 children. Sessions are led by qualified teachers alongside experienced support staff who bring a range of early years and outdoor learning expertise to the setting.
Taking Care of Ourselves & Eachother
Wild Bugs aims to be an inclusive environment and we are happy to consider applications from children with additional support needs. Before a child begins attending, we will discuss their individual needs with families to ensure that Wild Bugs is the right environment for them. As the setting is fully outdoors and based within woodland areas, the safety and wellbeing of all children must always be prioritised. Where appropriate, individual risk assessments may be carried out prior to attendance.
Applying for A Wild Bugs Space
We hold regular open evenings throughout the year where families can meet the team and explore our beautiful setting. We ask that families attend an open evening before we proceed with enrolment. To secure a place at Wild Bugs, a £100 administration fee is required. This fee holds your child’s space and covers the administration involved in processing your child’s registration and enrolment. Please find our registration form linked below!
A School Alternative
Wild Bugs is a school alternative available to families who wish for their children to attend local authority school part time or for families who wish to home educate their children.
Testimonials
Jonathan
"Bugs has played such a large part in our son's development, growth and joyfullness over the last few years. The outdoor setting is beautiful and we feel so fortunate to have stumbled across such a special and unique place where the staff and leadership clearly have his best interests at heart."
Interested in Wild Bugs?
Contact our admin team for further information and a copy of our handbook!
- Telephone
- 01383 279 380
