Woodland management training - new Autumn course dates

This Autumn we're running a series of subsidised courses to help you learn the skills needed to sustainably manage woodlands and to help boost biodiversity. Our expert trainer and fourth-generation forester Chris Keeler will be on hand to guide you through the range of skills on offer.

Our courses are ideal for those who own or manage woodlands, help look after woodlands, or those interested in a career in woodland management.

Upcoming courses

‍Introduction to coppicing

For absolute beginners who want to learn the basics of coppicing, this course is an essential introduction to a fundamental skill for woodland management. The course will cover:

- The history of coppicing

- Why coppicing is important

- The best tools for the job and how to care for them

- Safely felling small diameter trees with hand tools

- Layering hazel

- How to deal with brash

- Coppice products

- Threats and opportunities

Upcoming course dates: Wednesday 22 October / Thursday 13 November, 9.30am - 4pm, Lag Wood, Hassocks

(Lag Wood is a ten minute walk from Hassocks train station for those using public transport.)

Book your place.

Hazel coppice, hurdles and hand tools

Join us in the beautiful woodland setting of Lag Wood in Hassocks for two immersive days in all things hazel coppice!

Our expert Lost Woods trainer, Chris, will be joined by master craftsman Simon Watson - one of the country’s finest wattle hurdle and thatching spar makers. Together, they will be leading a hands-on workshop that explores a time-honoured coppice craft: making traditional woven wattle hurdles.

You’ll learn through doing, following the rhythms of woodland work and the practical traditions that have shaped rural life for centuries.

We will cover how to select, cut, and prepare hazel using managed / unmanaged coppice, the essential tools and techniques for making wattle hurdles and other useful products that can be crafted.

While prior experience is not essential, attending our Introduction to Coppicing course would be an advantage, and help you to get the most from this workshop.

Upcoming course date: Monday 27 and Tuesday 28 October, 9.30am - 4pm, Lag Wood, Hassocks. Fee: £80

(Lag Wood is a ten minute walk from Hassocks train station for those using public transport.)

Book your place.

Hear about future courses

No course dates convenient for you? Register your interest to hear about upcoming courses from our project partner Small Woods.

The Lost Woods is made possible thanks to players of The National Lottery.