October 12 @ 9:30 am - 5:00 pm
£75
This one-day course is an introduction into the world of bushcraft, perfect for both beginners to the hobby and those who already enjoy the outdoors but want to learn to tread lighter and smarter on the land. Through the day you will learn a range of practical skills you can take forward into the wilderness on your own bushcraft journey. You will gain a deepened connection to nature whilst experiencing how bushcraft can enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the outdoors. Previous course participants have told us that after a day with us they have never looked at the woods the same way again. This course aims to build your confidence and bring your skillset to the next level.
Whether you’re new to bushcraft or a veteran of the outdoors, let our experienced instructor guide you through core skills of bushcraft; fire, shelter, outdoor cooking and using edged tools. Your course is all set against the backdrop of mixed woodlands, wetlands and open meadows of Park In The Past, with 120 acres of wild space to explore.
- Confidently create fire without matches, using a range of methods.
- Forage for natural tinders that can get your fire going in any conditions.
- Build weather-proof shelters using tarps and ropes.
- Enjoy a delicious lunch, cooked by the group over the campfire (vegan options available)
- Learn how to identify key tree & plant species that can aid us in bushcraft.
- Improve your techniques in knife and saw work, using safe and effective grips.
- Discover essential knots which can be put to a range of tasks.
- See the natural world through the eyes of our ancestors.
- Craft clever campfire gadgets to aid you in cooking outdoors.
- Improve your health & well-being by reconnecting with nature.
- Know the laws that relate to practising bushcraft in the UK.
Your Tutor: James Kendall
James is the Head Bushcraft Instructor at Woodland Classroom, having worked in outdoor education & conservation for over 10 years. James’ approach to teaching steers students toward fostering a deeper connection with nature through understanding the landscape around us; “Bushcraft skills are an effective way to do this as we learn how to make use of natural materials and live lightly with the land, whilst also connecting with our own ancient past by seeing the land through the eyes of our ancestors.”
In 2017 James received the Bushcraft Competency Certificate awarded through the Institute for Outdoor Learning after 2 years of teaching experience and practical study. He is also a member of the IOL Bushcraft Professional Practise Group. The group aims to promote best practice in the growing industry of bushcraft activity providers.
Skills you will learn
Over the course of the programme you will learn a range of skills, including…
YOUR DAY IN THE WOODS
Your day will begin with arrival at our woodland basecamp set amongst native trees and wildflowers. From here we will enjoy a brew around the campfire whilst you get an introduction to the fascinating subject of bushcraft. You’ll take a short walk into the woods to learn how to view the natural world through the eyes of our ancestors.
Next we will focus on sharp tool use by practising safe cutting techniques with both knife and saw. You will learn a number of effective knife grips that can be put to a range of camp tasks. You will craft your own tent peg using your new tool skills, which will be put to use very soon.
Our attention then turns to making shelter in the woods, using tarps and cordage. You will also learn a selection of really useful knots as you erect your own camp shelters using different configurations to suit your environment and needs. Finally we will gather together to prepare our freshly cooked campfire lunch in a traditional dutch oven.
At lunchtime we will sitting together around the campfire as humans have done for thousands of generations, sharing good food and stories. We will also discuss UK law and how it relates to practising bushcraft.
Your afternoon will be spent focused on firelighting skills. You will gain skills using tried & tested techniques including modern firesteels and traditional flint & steel to produce embers and flames of quality. Then we will be exploring the woods on the hunt for natural tinders, kindling and firewood (which can even be found in wet conditions). You will learn how to use these effectively to build your own campfire which you will then put to task in boiling your own woodland brew. Finally you will be be shown how to minimise your trace and lessen your impact on the land when bushcrafting. It’s going to be a day you won’t forget.
Book now
This course costs £75 per person and is open to learners aged 12 years and over. Young people aged 12-16 must be accompanied by an adult. You can read our Event Terms & Conditions here.
