I got exactly what I wanted – advice on what to look for in machine tools, which tools are more useful than others, as well as lots of tips and tricks.

I would just like to say a big thank you for the fantastic course that you ran last week, i can honestly say i haven’t learnt that much in years and along with that had such fun. You truly have an exceptional environment to learn and the camaraderie is second to none. Again many, many thanks and hopefully i will get myself along to the long course in the not to distant future.

A superb course taught by John who is a excellent teacher and obviously extremely experienced. He made learning the basics of woodworking really fun and enjoyable. I learnt loads and feel so much more confident with the plane, saw and chisel. The supply of delicious cakes and biscuits also helped to keep energy levels up for the entire two days.

The course instruction was very clear, for a subject that was more complex than I expected. Well paced to allow plenty of time for questions and practice of the skills learned. I would most certainly recommend this course to prospective students.

John’s clarity, expertise and sense of humour. Pace was just right and facilities provided all you could need, including biscuits.

Having zero woodworking skills I amazed myself with what I achieved after only five days – all credit to John for his excellent teaching. The small class gives everyone lots of one to one time with John. I arrived with a piece of firewood and went home with a beautifully restored 19th century chair. Everything was spot on!

The knowledge and the way information was put across by John standout but the all round atmosphere was excellent. Please move to Carlisle so you are closer. To be honest it is the best week I have had.

Superb course, many thanks for expert tuition. Already being put into good use- I went mad at local auction on Tuesday and have restored several items with much sharper tools….

Even at this early stage in my woodworking journey the level of accuracy seemed impossible but with only a day of John’s guidance on the tools fractions of millimeter workmanship was being repeatable achieved.

Well paced instruction, clear and understandable demonstrations and bags of time to practice. I never felt rushed. I liked John’s instructional style and gained a great deal of confidence from accomplishing to tasks and projects. The workshop and equipment were well thought out. I’m often a bit overwhelmed by the amount of stuff in some people’s workshops but John seemed to have just the right amount of kit which was in excellent condition. And I am left with a clear idea of the minimum amount of stuff I need. I really appreciated the ability to use the workshop in my own time before and after the instruction. I felt trusted and that I was treated as an adult. I liked the way we focussed on the important skills and didn’t spend unnecessary time on less productive things. I was really chuffed with the results…the box and board. And i feel really pleased with the skills involved in producing them. John gave us five full days! No skimping! I will and have recommended the course.