Bush School Fearnley Grounds Fridays 2026

Bush School is a nature play program for 2.5 – 5 year olds and their carers, set amongst the trees and ponds of Centennial Park. It’s about climbing, collecting, splashing, balancing, building, and wandering — without rushing to the next thing.

Each session is child-led and open-ended. There are cubbies to build, trees to climb, animals to meet and plenty of dirt to dig. Kids set the pace. Educators support the play. Adults stay and get involved, learning alongside their child through nature connection and hands-on activities.

What to expect:

• Nature-based free play and sensory discovery
• Mud, sticks, leaves and imagination
• Bushcraft and storytelling
• Carer-child connection through shared outdoor experience
• Practical take-home ideas for nature play

This is a stay-and-play program — carers are part of the learning journey too.

Age: Children 2.5 – 5 years

Meeting point: Our Bush School site is located in the trees at Ash Paddock, Centennial Park.

Things to know before you attend

Bush School is an outdoor program and will take place in all-weather except for high winds and thunderstorms. Participants (adults and children) are expected to dress for the outdoors, including bringing wet weather gear, a hat, sturdy enclosed shoes and waterproof footwear when required.

We reserve the right to cancel the event in case of dangerous weather or if minimum participation numbers are not met. In these circumstances a refund will be offered. Please refer to our full terms and conditions for more information.

What to bring to the event

• Ensure your child comes prepared for this session by:
• Bringing a refillable drink bottle and a small snack for morning tea
• Dressing for the weather, e.g. sun protection (hat, sunscreen, cool clothing) and wet weather gear (raincoat, shoes and change of clothes)