Beginners Intensive Programme

Monday, October 21, 2024 9:00 AM 09:00
Friday, December 13, 2024 4:30 PM 16:30

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The Beginners Intensive Programme establishes a very solid skill base for all aspiring woodworkers and provides the core foundation skills for future fine furniture making and woodworking. No prior experience is necessary, although this course will also be of great benefit in developing the skills and accuracy of those students who have already done some woodworking.

The course content is all practical teaching and learning, with the full eight weeks being spent here at your own personal bench with your own toolkit (with tools only befitting that of a serious woodworker). Students quickly gain skills due to the small class size and individual attention from the tutor.

Course outline:

Tuning, sharpening & use of hand tools
Introduction to hand & machine cut joinery
Best practice and safety in the machine room
Frame & panel construction
Constructing and fitting a dovetail drawer
Chair making – the construction of a dining/desk chair
Tool making – mallet and hammer
Understanding adhesives & appropriate use
Understanding hand applied finishes
Basic practices in veneering,laminating and shaping
Steam bending
Field trips and workshop visits

download the application form

To enrol on the programme please complete and return the application form along with a covering letter, email or CV outlining your background, reasons for wanting to enrol on the Beginners Intensive Programme and what you want to achieve from attending the programme. Please include any photos relevant of work you have produced (if applicable).

You will also need to include with your application two separate character references from someone who has known you for more than two years, e.g. a former employer, teacher or work colleague who can vouch for your character and work ethic, and who is not a family member.

Once your application has been assessed you will be offered a place on the programme. If you are under the age of 25 and live in the Top of the South you may be eligible to apply for the Thorkild Hansen Scholarship Programme which will cover the cost of your course fees. Contact us for further details.