Behind Every Great Course Is a Great Team – Meet Ours!
Ever wondered who’s behind the scenes making our courses magic happen? Well, wonder no more — it’s time to meet the Courses Team!
They’re the crew brainstorming and fine-tuning every course to help you learn, grow and enjoy the ride! We can't wait for you to meet the team that's cheering you on every step of the way!
Meet Wendy, our Courses Manager…
What inspired you to take on the role of Courses Manager here at The Sustainability Centre?
Following a career in primary education and encouraging the next generation to learn skills I wanted a new direction supporting people in finding out more about a sustainable way of living.
Working with a range of tutors with specialist knowledge to bring this to a wider audience and to work within nature in a beautiful setting that allows for peace and connection was a way forward for me.
Having always loved being in the woodland and learning about how to grow my own fruit, vegetables and flowers at my own allotment, I am aware of the importance of being an open-minded, life-long learner. I wanted to open this up to others to see that there is more to learning beyond the childhood classroom.
Helping to share valuable skills and knowledge about how we might live more sustainably via our expert tutors, developing new and different courses to bring to those that visit us and opening up conversations around sustainable living have been important in my decision to work here.
What has been your highlight?
In the couple of years that I have worked here, I have met some wonderful people, experienced some fantastic course and it has challenged my way of thinking in a number of ways. I have both facilitated the delivery of existing courses and developed new ones which has been a privilege. The feedback from participants who come for the course but leave with so much more, knowing that what we have done in providing the space as well as the learning has been so powerful. Seeing participants find comfort in the space provided by nature here and the opportunity to learn new skills at their own pace, keen to put small changes into practice when they return home is so rewarding and a real highlight.
Why is Sustainability so important in our day to day lives?
We have to review, to take stock and to think about how we live and the ripple effect of our actions.
We need to be present and aware of the decisions that we make today and the impact on the world around us and for future generations.
Being open to new ways that we can do things and to open up the conversations in a positive and empowering way is a way to do this.
Is there a particular upcoming course that you would recommend to people?
The courses team work on developing a range of courses for various audiences. The woodland setting here is quite special and the courses that allow nature to come to the fore are the most special in my opinion. I have been lucky enough to set up a new day course with Janice Butler and Jez Smith developing an opportunity to explore the mindful practices of forest bathing, art and sound-baths which I am looking forward to in September. Come and join us!
Creative Forest Bathing & Therapeutic Sound Day - 6th Sept
Meet Julie, our Courses Administrator…
What inspired you to take on the role of Courses Administrator here at The Sustainability Centre?
I have always been loved the natural world and enjoy spending time outdoors. I wanted to encourage people to sample the joys of nature because if we value and have a relationship with the natural world, we will be more likely to want to conserve our environment.
What has been your highlight?
Witnessing lots of smiley faces leave our courses, perhaps proudly holding an item they have crafted as a complete beginner. Everyone looks more relaxed and fresh-of-face after spending a day away from the digital world.
Why is Sustainability so important in our day to day lives?
All of us are merely passing through and are therefore, custodians of the planet. The Earth has sustained and supported us throughout generations, so we should do our best protect and improve the environment for the future generations
Is there a particular upcoming course that you would recommend to people?
That’s a tough question as the courses team running approximately 60 courses a year, all with their own merits. However, my personal passion is encouraging people to taking some time out of their busy lives to practise slow living as it’s so good for our wellbeing.
The NHS list key 5 practises to help your mental wellbeing:
Connect with other people. Good relationships are important for your mental wellbeing.
Be physically active. Being active is not only great for your physical health and fitness.
Learn new skills.
Give to others.
Pay attention to the present moment - mindfulness.
The course that comes to mind which has all the above elements is our Bushcraft Skills one or two day courses. Not only are these two August days run by two expert coaches, you will spend a summer’s day in our woodland learning new skills at your own pace which include -
Tree and plant identification
How to make cordage
Rope work and tarp rigging
Practice session
Fire lighting and different fire lays
Bow drill masterclass
Backcountry cooking
Practice session/cooking
