Course Description

​"Outdoor hands on approach was very good. Experienced and knowledgeable tutors."

At a glance, this course:

• Keeps traditional skills alive
• ​Connects us with nature
• Supports biodiversity

About the course

This course will give you practical, hands-on experience in the traditional art of coppicing.  You will work on a section of hazel stands here at The Sustainability Centre which is being coppiced as part of a wider woodland management plan conservation on site. The Centre does not have a working hazel coppice which produces commercially viable products, our aim is to slowly and sensitively restore our woodlands.

Using traditional hand tools such as billhooks and bow saws, in pairs you will cut the stools and drift the rods, layering in order allow new plants and habitats to form. The course will focus on coppicing for conservation but will mention traditional coppice products including charcoal, hedging stakes, binders, and thatching spars. 

Please note that this course may be taking place on the South Downs Burial Ground within
The Sustainability Centre site. If a family member or other visitor would like to visit a grave, practical work may need to pause for a few moments to allow this to take place.​

The course will give you:

• an understanding of how to use the hand tools involved in coppicing
• practical experience of coppicing
• knowledge of the benefits of coppicing for our native plants and wildlife
• knowledge of the products to be gained from coppicing

This course is suitable for:

No experience is necessary and due to the specific nature of the course, it will appeal to experienced woodland owners, professionals and beginners alike.  The terrain in our woodland is unlevel and may not be accessible for people with mobility issues.  If in doubt, please contact the courses team before booking at courses@sustainability-centre.org

What to bring:

• Sturdy footwear (e.g. walking boots), working clothes, including thick trousers, work gloves, hat and a wax jacket if you have one.
• ​All tools will be provided but if you have them and would like to use them, please bring along your own safety goggles, a bowsaw, a pair of loppers, and a billhook.
• A packed lunch or lunch can be purchased from the onsite, Beech Cafe.

Cancellations, refunds, and bursaries:

Read the full Adult Courses Cancellations and Refunds Policy and Courses Bursary Fund Information.

About the Tutor

​Phil has been involved in coppicing for several years, primarily hazel and sweet chestnut, and is a member of the Hampshire Coppice Craftsmen Group. | www.hampshirechestnut.co.uk