South Queensferry
Little Bugs at Abercorn
Lower Parkhead, South Queensferry, EH30 9SL
Welcome to Wild Bugs
Wild Bugs is a unique outdoor kindergarten stage set within the beautiful grounds of Hopetoun Estate. Registered with the Care Inspectorate, we provide day care for children aged 5–8 years in a fully outdoor learning environment where curiosity, adventure and imagination can thrive.
At Wild Bugs we believe childhood should be filled with exploration, fresh air and meaningful experiences. Our setting offers children the opportunity to reconnect with nature while developing the skills, confidence and resilience they need for life.
Wild Bugs is designed as an alternative learning environment rather than a replacement for school. The service supports families who choose to home educate or flexi-school their children, offering an outdoor, play-based learning experience alongside their chosen educational pathway. While we are not registered as an independent school, we follow the principles of the Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) to observe, monitor and track children’s progress. Learning is documented through observations and reflections rather than formalised assessments or tests.
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!
Benefits of Wild Bugs ages 5-8
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 Monday to Friday, 9am - 3pm, term time only. Wrap around care is available from 8am - 9am and 3pm - 4, 5 & 6pm.
Spaces and Ratios
There will be 20 Wild Bugs spaces available each day. 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!
Interested in Wild Bugs ages 5-8?
Contact our admin team for further information and a copy of our handbook!
- Telephone
- 01383 279 380