What do a graphic designer, sheep farmer and an architect have in common?

On the face of it, not a lot, except for one thing.  They’re the day jobs of just three of our students on our latest one-week introductory course.

Darren Kirk from Essex is a graphic designer who is more used to creating brochures and advertising spreads than wielding a chisel.

But he enrolled for the course because “it’s something that’s been in my head for a long time.”

Likewise Ian Carr, a sheep farmer from East Lothian, who wants to pursue his woodworking hobby by improving some basic skills.

So too Malcolm Inglis from Glasgow, an architect who has been involved with some major commercial and healthcare projects, and who also worked as a furniture designer in Milan.

All three have very different jobs, but all have a passion for woodworking and for improving their core skills in a professional environment.

All our students, whether on our introductory, intermediate or professional courses, come from different backgrounds – and often have no woodworking experience when they come here.

We’re just delighted to pass on some of our skills to them, and hope that they actively pursue their passion for woodworking.

There are still places on other introductory courses this year, which will take place on: 25th to 29th June 2018; 17th to 21st September 2018; and 17th to 21st December 2018.

Our intermediate one-month courses take place throughout the year, with a maximum of two students.  Start dates are at the discretion of the student, to fit in with their other commitments, so early booking is advised.

Main picture: The class of March 2018, with (left) Tom Fraser, deputy principal and (kneeling), Anselm Fraser, principal

Middle picture: from left, Darren Kirk, Ian Carr and Malcolm Inglis