Wilder ways of living

Michael Wachter, is an experienced outdoorsman and primitive skills practitioner whose teachings come from nature. His style is process rather than goal orientated. He has lectured to an international audience on the subjects of rewilding, habitat restoration and foraging.

During this course you will embark on a journey which will bring you closer to the natural world and learn see yourself as part of an interconnected ecosystem. Taking place one afternoon a month, over four months, you will have the opportunity to spend time outside, immersing yourself in nature, tapping in and out of various disciplines whilst developing your understanding of the different habitats that plants grow in. Each day will finish with an outdoor fire, a wild snack and a warm cup of tea harvested from the land.

Great Dixter provides a rich, multi-layered habitats for wildlife and humans alike. You will learn to read and understand your natural surroundings, discover what plants can provide for us and how we can give back to nature with an introduction to habitat restoration practices.

Topics covered could include:

Herbal medicine, culinary uses of plants, practical skills including glue, rope, plant and habitat identification, looking at specific plants throughout the growing season, using deep observation to better understand plant ecosystems and ourselves, habitat restoration and landscape stewardship.

The course is suitable for anyone who wants to develop a deeper connection with nature, whether a complete beginner, an outdoor practitioner wishing to build on previous skills and knowledge or are wanting to find out more about habitat restoration and conservation.

28th February- Buds, Fire, medicinal mushrooms – at Great Dixter- 1:30-5:30pm

11th April- Shoots and wild greens– at Great Dixter- 1:30-5:30pm

18th April – Coastal foraging, Seaweed  – at Pett Level beach- 4pm-7pm

16th May – Wild feast fermenting at Great Dixter- 1:30-5:30pm 

£300.00 per place.

Limited reduced cost bursary places are available. Please email [email protected]