Course Description

'Excellent and well thought-out instruction from very experienced tutor. Good group size, great food, perfect venue.'

At a glance, this course:

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

About the course

On this training course in Hampshire, you will gain practical, hands on experience in the ancient art of hedgelaying (South of England style).  A local hedge will be laid using traditional tools i.e. billhook, broad axe and hand saws. The stock proof barrier created will then be trimmed by hand and secured with stakes and top binding.  You will also learn about the history of hedgerows in our landscape and their habitat importance.

The course will give you:

• Understanding of how to use the hand tools involved in hedgelaying
• Practical experience of hedgelaying
• Some knowledge about the history and importance of hedgerows 

This course is suitable for:

No experience is necessary but due to the specific nature of the course, it will appeal to experienced gardeners, professionals and beginners alike.  This is a physical course, please check with the courses team before booking if you have any mobility concerns at courses@sustainability-centre.org.

What to bring:

• Sturdy footwear (e.g. walking boots), working clothes, including thick trousers, work gloves and a hat
• Plus if you have them, please bring safety goggles, a wax jacket, bowsaw, loppers, and billhooks
• A packed lunch or lunch can be purchased from the onsite Beech Café

Cancellations, refunds, and bursaries:

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

About the tutor

John Blithe has worked for a range of organisations delivering habitat conservation and horticultural therapy roles at home and abroad including working with volunteers, school children, adult learners and people recovering from mental health problems.  John has been involved with: The British Trust of Conservation Volunteers, Rethink, The Green Health Partnership & The US Forest Service.

In 2007 John established Creative Outdoors undertaking practical conservation projects in and around Hampshire, Surrey & Kent. Key activities are hedgelaying, coppicing, and developing wildlife/sensory gardens and living willow structures in schools.  John has a degree in Environmental Management and has delivered courses for adults on Garden Design, Hedgelaying and Organic & Kitchen Gardening.