

This course is designed as a ‘Taster Week’ for those contemplating joining the long ‘Designer Maker Course’, or as a stand-alone skills-building course. It aims to give students a feel for what it takes to achieve exceptionally high standards. The aim isn’t to make a significant final piece, but, instead, uses small projects such as the Chinese puzzle and the chamfered chopping board to help our students really focus on hand skills. From the setting up and sharpening of both hand planes and chisels, to accurate marking and measuring, through to hitting those lines with a saw and chisel, a meticulous level of detail is a must to achieve the goal of gaining control of your tools. This course works equally well for beginners wanting to get the basics right, and for those more experienced woodworkers who may have struggled for years to master the use of hand tools. It’s fun, intense and as the high quality work created by all of the students that have passed through the school over the years demonstrate, it really works!
Course highlights

Friday 6th March 2026, 10am-3pm
Hedgerows are not (just) for keeping the livestock secure. Join Friends of the Lake District to discover the many ways hedges can benefit your farm, wildlife and the wider environment, and discuss what management approaches help them live up to their impressive potential, from planting all the way…
Tuesday 24th February 2026, 10am-4pm at a venue tbc in Eden Valley
An introductory session exploring the traditional landscape management technique of hedgelaying which is much in demand across different landscapes! Booking essential.
Tuesday 10th February 2026, 10am-4pm at CWT Brown Robin NR
An introductory session exploring the traditional woodland management technique of coppicing which creates forest products as well as benefiting biodiversity. Booking essential.
Our degree teaching takes places Monday-Friday with a flexible timetable.
Given the pace at which our planet is changing, there has never been a more important time to study geography. Learn to make sense of the complex interactions between humanity and our planetary environment and discover how you can make a positive difference.

Furness College Open Day 20 November

Cumbrian Agriculture, Arboriculture and Forestry Apprenticeship INFORMATION EVENINGS

Carlisle College Open Days 15 January and 26 March 2026