Skills, Progression and Friendships in Ceredigion
Written by Tir Coed / Tuesday 09 July 2024
Skills, Progression and Friendships in Ceredigion
Here’s a glimpse into the recent activities in Ceredigion that are unlocking the potential of land and woodlands to provide educational and health activities for our local communities.
Woodland Carpentry Course at the Welsh Wildlife Centre
In week 10 of our Woodland Carpentry Course, eight enthusiastic participants are working towards Agored Cymru accreditation at Level 2. The course, hosted at the incredible Welsh Wildlife Centre in Cardigan, has seen our trainees mastering the intricacies of mortice and tenon joints using braces, bits, and chisels.
A key project involved building a fence with around 40 cross rails, each requiring a tenon carved at both ends to slot into morticed posts. This hands-on experience highlighted the durability and beauty of using oak posts and chestnut rails, resulting in a fence that will stand the test of time, lasting over 20 years without rotting!
A special moment during the course was the sighting of a Scarlet Tigermoth Butterfly. Although not rare, it’s a pretty and seldom-seen visitor that added a touch of nature’s beauty to our woodworking endeavours.
Horticulture Course at Ty Llywd, Llanfarian
Our Sustainable Horticulture Course, now in week 13, is fostering a vibrant learning environment with ten participants also aiming for Level 2 Agored Cymru accreditation. Hosted at Ty Llywd, Llanfarian, the course has seen the creation of a cloche top for raised beds. Using UPVC water pipes as hoops covered with polythene, our trainees are successfully nurturing tomato plants under its shelter.
The site’s fruit trees and vegetables are thriving, thanks in part to the installation of a second water storage container, ensuring a reliable water supply throughout the summer. The overall atmosphere at Ty Llywd is one of a well-established sustainable horticulture project, characterised by development and growth happening both within the garden and within the group of trainees attending.
Unexpected Discovery
This summer, trainees discovered a bat living in the wooden wall of the cabin at Coed Tyllwyd, evidenced by bat droppings caught in cobwebs. This discovery led to an engaging lesson on distinguishing bat droppings from mouse droppings. Here’s a tip: roll a dropping in tissue between your finger and thumb—if it crumbles easily, it’s from a bat. Sometimes crushed bat droppings sparkle in the light.
Personal Development and Progression
Both the Woodland Carpentry and Sustainable Horticulture courses have significantly contributed to the personal development of our trainees. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on kinaesthetic learning, participants have not only enhanced their practical skills but also developed a deep understanding of their craft. These experiences have fostered life-long friendships, cultivated a desire to pursue further courses, and inspired many to explore volunteering opportunities or future career paths in related fields. The journey has been transformative, instilling confidence and a sense of achievement in each participant.
Support our Work
We invite all our trainees, past and present, as well as our funders and partner organisations, to continue supporting and participating in our efforts. Together, we can ensure that our communities thrive in harmony with the natural environment.
This project is Funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
