We are once again able to accept occasional visits by school parties.
Enquiries to schools@foresthermitage.org.uk
Unfortunately, we have no monk available to visit schools. However, a generous lay supporter is happy to make the occasional visit.
Bringing a group to the Hermitage
How many children can visit?
This is best discussed but bear in mind we do not have a large space.
How long would a visit last?
Visits usually last from 60 – 90 minutes. Afternoons only.
What happens during a visit to the Hermitage?
A typical visit is hosted in the main shrine room and, depending on how much the children already know, will generally include the following: introduction to the place, explanation of the items on the shrine, brief account of the Buddha’s life and principle teachings, introduction to the life of a monk, a short period of meditation (mindfulness of breathing and loving-kindness) and a period of questions and answers. To finish, we usually walk around the grounds. If the children already have a good grasp of the basics of Buddhism, we will give more time to the Q&A session. If there are certain topics that you’d like addressed, we can discuss this beforehand.
Are there forms of etiquette to be observed at the monastery?
Yes, there are. Please click here for more information.
Is there a cost?
No – there is no charge.
Can we contribute in any other way?
Sometimes a school will arrange a vegetarian food hamper, often made up of things given by the children. Not only will this help us, but it will also tie in nicely with what will be said during the visit about the practice of generosity and of the monks’ dependency on the lay-community. There is a list of useful items here.
What about parking?
Although we have a car park, it is too small for coaches, and so the children will need to be dropped off at the gate. There are a few lay-bys on the lane where the coach or mini-bus can park.
Are there any hazards we should be aware of?
Not really. There is a small, shallow pond which the children will walk past when they tour the grounds, but this is set well back from the path. Apart from that there is nothing out of the ordinary.
A visit to your school
What does a typical school visit involve?
That depends on what you would like. We’d be happy to discuss your needs. Regarding the contents of the talk or assembly – that would depend on the time allotted and how much the children already know, but would probably include some or all of what’s mentioned above under ‘What happens during a visit to the Hermitage?’ If there are certain topics that you’d like addressed, we can discuss this beforehand.
How long would a visit last?
Again, this depends on you. It could be a 15 minute assembly, or a 30 – 60 minute session with one or two classes. It could be a series of 30 minute sessions, one after the other…
How far away from the Hermitage can you come?
We usually visit schools in Warwick, Stratford-upon-Avon, Leamington Spa, Coventry and Solihull, as well as the various villages in between.
Does it cost anything?
No.
Can we contribute in any other way?
Sometimes a school will arrange a vegetarian food hamper, often made up of things given by the children. Not only will this help us, but it will also tie in nicely with what will be said during the visit about the practice of generosity and of the monks’ dependency on the lay-community. There is a list of useful items here.
Which days and times are best?
Regarding days, we’re flexible, so if you suggested some we’d see which suited us best.
The Forest Hermitage 