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Schools FAQs

The following FAQs should help you get the most from your visit.
  • Will filming/photography take place?

    • Filming/photography could take place on the day of your visit. We will always ask for photography/filming permission beforehand and will never take pictures or film your group without permission.
  • Can I use my mobile phone at the Rare Breeds Centre?

    • Mobile reception is poor at the Rare Breeds Centre.  If your school needs to contact you during your visit, please tell them to call the office who will endeavour to get the message to your group.
  • What if we need to cancel our visit?

    • Please tell us as soon as possible so we are able to offer your space to another school.
  • How do we get to the Rare Breeds Centre?

    • The Rare Breeds Centre is situated near Ashford, about fifteen minutes from Junction 10 of the M20 between the villages of Hamstreet and Woodchurch on the B2067.
    • When using Satellite Navigation please update your systems before entering our postcode TN26 3RJ otherwise this may take you to the wrong entrance. Please inform your coach driver of this.
    • There are a few tourist information signs on the roads leading from Tenterden and from Ashford.  Unfortunately, we are not signposted on the M20. Full directions can be found here.
  • What if we are late?

    • Please telephone us on 01233 861493 to let us know as soon as possible, as we may need to rearrange your activity times. 
  • What time can we arrive?

    • Schools can arrive from 10.00am. There is a little bit of admin to be completed before your group can enter the farm, this usually provides an ideal toilet opportunity before school visits start exploring the farm.
  • Where should we park?

    • The coach park is situated on the right-hand side of the driveway, just before our main car park.
    • Minibuses that are transporting children with additional needs can use our accessible parking bays outside the gift shop.
  • What should we do on arrival?

    • While the children get their things together, the group leader will need to head up to the gift shop to complete the admin for the visit.
    • Please be ready to tell the Schools Coordinator how many children, infants (under 3s) and accompanying adults you have in your party (this is for payment/your invoice).
    • The Schools Coordinator will have a copy of your schedule for the day.
    • You will be allocated a section of the Benson Barn or our new undercover picnic area as your base for the day.
    • Once all the admin is done, you can all head into the farm to enjoy your day!
  • How do we pay?

    You can pay:

    • in cash/cheque on the day (Cheques made payable to 'Canterbury Oast Trust')
    • by card on the day
    • we can invoice you after your visit

    You should have indicated on your booking form how you wish to pay.

  • Where are the toilets?

    • Toilets are located opposite our Gift Shop/Admissions area, and at Sammy’s Play Park.
  • Where should we leave our coats/bags/lunches?

    • We will allocate you a section of the Benson Barn or undercover picnic area. You can leave bags/coats/lunches here if you choose to. Please be aware that these areas are open to the public and are likely to be used by other visiting schools.
    • We recommend that you always keep money and other valuables with you.
    • Food should be well wrapped inside sealed lunch boxes/ bags.
  • Where do we eat lunch?

    • You can use the picnic tables in the undercover area you have been allocated or any of the outside picnic tables.