Camp Crusoe Summer Camp: Residential Forest Camp in Norfolk

Camp Crusoe is not a summer school but a fun, adventurous camp. The approach focuses on play, mental wellbeing, social skills, outdoor exploration, and young leadership. Children are divided into small day groups with a counsellor, and the staff‑to‑camper ratio is 1:4. There are no academic lessons; instead, campers learn through trying new activities, working as a team, and being part of a diverse community. English is the only language spoken at camp, giving international campers an immersive experience. International campers must understand English well (confirmed by a quick video call) and are limited to 20% of each session to ensure the best experience.

The camp fee (early bird discounts available) includes all accommodation, food (including tuck), activities, and for international campers an online language assessment and registration with Alpha Guardians (Aegis Gold Standard accredited). Travel to and from camp is not included but can be added separately. Optional extras: accompanied coach travel from London (Stratford) at an additional cost; Heathrow airport transfer (arranged via Alpha Guardians, not camp staff); holdover night between consecutive sessions; extra homestay nights before or after camp via Alpha Guardians. A £200 deposit per place is required at registration. Childcare vouchers and Tax‑Free Childcare are accepted.

Campers sleep in secure, modern single‑sex cabins (5 beds per cabin) with staff cabins integrated throughout each village. Junior campers (youngest) sleep in single‑sex dorms in the main house. There is an outdoor ablutions block with loos and hot showers nearby, plus girls’ and boys’ facilities in the main house. The accommodation has ground floor accessibility for those with restricted mobility. Cabins are located close to the main house, and the camp provides a hot shower and a comfy bed indoors – not camping under canvas.

Full board is provided. Campers enjoy hearty, healthy meals in the dining room or outside whenever possible. The kitchen staff cater to special dietary requirements and allergies (to be given when registering). The camp has a level 5 food hygiene rating from the Food Standards Authority. Meal times are an integral part of the day, with a focus on good ingredients.

The extensive programme includes: canoeing, SAS experience, wide games, archery, photography, drama, kayaking, caving, team challenges, zip wire, evening games, wild swimming, disc golf, campfire, arts & crafts, high ropes, mountain biking, and disco. All activities are on‑site (no coach travel), and campers can choose special ‘electives’ as well as take part in group activities and special events (e.g. photography masterclass, talent competitions, quizzes). Each evening features a fun event such as campfire songs, stories, or the end‑of‑camp disco. The level of difficulty varies by age, and the goal is fun, challenge, and trying new things.

The camp is based at Thorpe Woodlands Adventure Centre in Thetford Forest, Norfolk, with a purpose‑built main house, cabin glades, and wonderful grounds. On‑site facilities include a climbing wall, zip line, archery range, challenge zone, caving system, bike trails, easy river access for swimming, canoeing and kayaking, plus areas to relax such as a yurt, log barns, and a hammock sanctuary. There are no smart classrooms, swimming pools, or Wi‑Fi for campers (the camp is intentionally screen‑free).

Camp Crusoe is a small, independent camp run by a close‑knit team of friends and family with many years of experience. The core team is supported by highly trained camp counsellors, many of whom return and plan careers working with children. The camp is Ofsted registered, holds the AHOEC Gold Standard, Adventuremark, and LOtC Quality Badge, and follows robust safeguarding policies. All staff have enhanced DBS checks, and the camp has a registered paediatric nurse (Matron) on site 24/7, plus first‑aid trained staff. The atmosphere is relaxed, positive, and happy, with campers forming bonds for life. Parents receive nightly updates and a photo album. The camp focuses on giving children time and space to just be children – playing outdoors, eating well, sleeping soundly, and building confidence, decision‑making skills, and lifelong friendships.