Small Woods Association

Learn to turn a wooden bowl on a traditional pole lathe. From log to bowl, you’ll learn the following processes: - Understanding the properties of different Bristish timbers and choosing the right timber suitable for bowl turning. - Using a froe to split the wood and how to mark out a bowl ‘blank’ - How to use an axe safely to rough out your blank - Learning to attach a mandrel and how to mount your blanks to the lathe correctly - Using and understanding different types of hand made...

This course is designed to provide an understanding of woodland ecology to support woodland management decisions. The course will include: - Principles of ecology - Identifying woodland vegetation types and associated key woodland species - Species inter-dependency, population dynamics - Biotic and abiotic threats - Woodland monitoring to benefit woodland management The course tutor will be Martin Hales.

A course designed for woodland owners and managers who want to manage their woodlands to balance wildlife, economic and social benefits. You will learn: - Understanding the true meaning of sustainability - Woodland types and structure - Practical woodland management - Woodland crafts and products - Woodland Biodiversity - Social Forestry This course covers both practical and theoretical aspects of managing a small wood and will lead to accreditation at Level 3 with the Open College Network. The course begins with an overview of the importance of sustainability in woodland...

Billhooks and axes are used because they are still the most effective tool for felling and timber reduction and conversion for some woodland activities such as coppice management. It is surprising how many blunt billhooks and axes are been used and the lack of awareness of how a sharp tool should look like and how much easier and safer work is when using a sharp tool. The course is suitable for all who use billhooks and axes routinely and a must do course for volunteer and project leaders taking groups...

This course will look at why soil is of such incredible value to our existence, the importance of looking after soil and how to do it and why healthy woodlands start with healthy soil. Through looking at the connection between soil types and plant species; which trees, shrubs and flowers grow on different soils, the course will uncover the relationship between plants and soil and the amazing eco-system beneath our feet. You will learn: - How to identify which soil you have - Examples of plant assemblages based on soil...