Friday 12 – Sunday 14 January
PRIVATE BOOKING

Friday 19 – Sunday 21 January
RUBBER GLOVES WEEKEND
Join us for a volunteer working session. There are plenty of tasks to be tackled this weekend - spring cleaning The Cowshed and Barn plus general maintenance around the buildings. Be prepared to work for at least six hours each day. You are very welcome to join in for part of this weekend; we ask you to pay a contribution of £7.50 per night, in advance please, to cover food costs.

Friday 26 - Sunday 28 January
WILLOW WEAVING WORKSHOP
Tutor: Norah Kennedy. (Max no 10)
N.B . This course starts at Friday lunchtime.
Two and a half days of weaving colourful willow into shapes of your choice. You may decide to spend the time making one or two baskets or you might want to make a structure or container to support and enhance your garden or perhaps even some simple decorations. Whatever you decide to do you will be helped and encouraged by Norah who is an experienced teacher. There will be supporting materials available to help and inspire you. All equipment is supplied by the tutor. This course is suitable for beginners and improvers.
Norah has been teaching willow workshops at Kingcombe for fifteen years. Her interest lies in making baskets that are “right in themselves and good for use” and reviving at least a portion of the many traditional uses for willow that have been superseded, but not surpassed, by synthetic materials. Norah Kennedy is a full time basket-maker and teacher.
Fees: RC £150, RB £165, NR £135 with up to £20 for materials payable during the course.

Saturday 27 January
YOGA WORKSHOP
Led by Anne Harte, in Beech Cottage
For further details and booking contact
Anne Harte on 01305 853790
(see also 24 March, 23 June, 22 Sept & 10 Nov )
Yoga is a philosophy, a science and an art. It develops strength, flexibility and control in the body. The practice of breathing techniques calms the mind, developing enhanced awareness and the ability to be still. Yoga is totally noncompetitive and so all can develop at their own pace without strain. This day at Kingcombe will have plenty for everyone to enjoy and benefit from and is suitable for total beginners.
Anne Harte has many years’ experience of Yoga. She holds two Yoga teaching qualifications and runs Adult Education and private classes in South and West Dorset. Morning and afternoon refreshments will be provided but bring lunch to share.

Sunday 28 January 10.30am - 4.30pm.
PRUNING FRUIT TREES
Tutor: Phil Gamble
Through a combination of talks, demonstrations and the opportunity to practise your new skills in The Kingcombe Orchard; this practical day will leave you feeling competent, knowledgeable and above all confident about helping fruit trees to thrive in good health and fruit well.
Popular speaker Phil Gamble is a gardens adviser and tutor who specialises in short courses, illustrated talks and practical demonstrations. He worked for many years as a college lecturer at Kingston Maurward and has also been a Head Gardener.
Fee: £40, in advance please
This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Monday 29 January 10.30am - 4.30pm
WILLOW WORK FOR THE GARDEN
Tutor: Norah Kennedy (Max no 12)
There is more to willow than making baskets! We will start by making a simple wigwam suitable for sweet peas and go on to create hurdles and fans for climbing plants, and some small edging hurdles for borders. You can expect to make 3 or 4 items each so leave space for these in your car on the journey home! The cost of materials (about £10) will be due on the day of the course.
Fee: £40, in advance please.
This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Friday 2 - Sunday 4 February
PRIVATE FUNCTION

Tuesday 6 February 10.30am - 4.30pm
PRACTICAL HEDGE LAYING SKILLS
Tutor: Ben Wallbridge
The day introduces techniques for laying hedges using traditional tools and materials to create an effective barrier and valuable wildlife resource. We will focus on tool use, hands-on hedge laying methods to maintain a hedge and how to evaluate the stages of hedge development.
Ben Wallbridge lives locally and formerly ran his own countryside service business. He was a Countryside Ranger and has many years experience in environmental education
Fee: £22.50, in advance please
This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Friday 9 - Sunday 11 February
RENAISSANCE MUSIC FOR SINGERS AND INSTRUMENTS
Tutor: Nancy Hadden
A weekend workshop for singers and players of renaissance winds and strings -- flute, recorder, cornetto, sackbut, early reeds, viols, lute, featuring one of the most prolific figures of the early 16th century, Clemens non Papa. Clemens is best known for his sacred motets, which number over 200. Works by his contemporaries Gombert, Crecquillon and Susato will also be performed during the weekend.
Good sight-reading and being able to hold your own part in a group are essential.
Renaissance specialist Nancy Hadden has been running courses in the UK, Europe and USA for over 20 years, and at Kingcombe for the past six years. A communicative and inspiring musician, she has performed worldwide and has made over 50 CDs. She directs the ensembles Circa 1500 and Zephyrus Flutes, and she teaches at the Guildhall School of Music.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Monday 12 – Thursday 15 February
WEST COUNTRY EMBROIDERERS
For further details contact Anne Simspon
01803 782576

Saturday 17 February 2pm
WEST DORSET BUTTERFLY TRANSECT TEAM
Meeting at the Centre to discuss the results of the 2006 survey work by Butterfly Conservation and to make plans for 2007. If you would like to get involved in the recording of butterflies on some of the West Dorset sites (and you do not have to be a great expert!) you will be very welcome. There will be tea afterwards.
Contact David Webb: 01308 459287.

Sunday 18 February 10.30 - 4pm
SING YOUR HEARTS OUT!
A day workshop with Sammy Hurden. (See also 13 May ).
A chance to explore the voice and sing in harmony in the beautiful environment of Kingcombe. No previous experience or reading of music necessary, just a love of singing with songs ranging from African to Soul. Sammy Hurden has been running singing workshops for many years. She has composed for TV and film and has played piano and sung in many jazz, soul and acappella groups.
Fee: £22.50, in advance please. This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Tuesday 20 February 12.30pm-4.00pm
BANGERS & MASH & BEETLE DRIVE
On a winters afternoon come and enjoy good food, good company and fun games in front of a roaring log fire. An opportunity to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of The Kingcombe Centre. Come along and support one of several Fundraising events for the upgrading of the Centre facilities.
Cost: £10, in advance please. This includes lunch, games and afternoon tea.

Thursday 22 February 10am - 4pm
ANIMAL TRACKS & SIGNS
For 8 -11 year olds
An exciting day tracking the Kingcombe “Sowmead”. First learn how to recognise the tracks and signs that animals leave behind. Then the skill of making a plaster cast of footprints and finishing the day trying to catch sight of this shy, elusive animal.
Fee: £10 in advance please, This includes morning and afternoon refreshments. Wellingtons and warm clothing plus a packed lunch essential!

Friday 23 – Sunday 25 February
MUDDY WELLIES WEEKEND
Join us for a volunteer working session. There
are plenty of tasks to be tackled this season – in the gardens of the Centre and Beech Cottage and general maintenance around the site.
Be prepared to work for at least six hours each day. You are very welcome to join in for part of this weekend; we ask you to pay a contribution of £7.50 per night, in advance please, to cover food costs.

Saturday 24 February
BOTANICAL PAINTING WORKSHOP
Tutor: Christina Hart-Davies
(see also17 March, 21-23 Sept &17 Nov) To book contact Christina Hart-Davies on 01202 671190
A series of themed workshops for people with some botanical art experience.
Christina Hart-Davies is a professional botanical artist and RHS Gold Medallist. She is an experienced Tutor and has illustrated many gardening and wildflower books. She is currently working on a new British Flora. She has tutored many courses in painting.

Friday 2 – Sunday 4 March
YOGA RETREAT
Tutor: Lynne Boot (Max 10)
A relaxing weekend that will help you detach from stress and face the outside world with renewed energy. Explore the body and mind connection through Yoga and Meditation. Increase your awareness, experience a full practice of asanas (stretching and opening the energy channels), develop your breathing techniques and discover the benefits of vipassana meditation. Recommended for people who love Yoga or would like to try. Beginners are very welcome.
The weekend will include talks on the use of essential oils and aromatherapy with accompanying walks around the area. Lynne is an IFPA aromatherapist and qualified Yoga teacher. She trained in both the UK and in Rishikesh, India. She runs the successful Chalkpit Yoga studio in Surrey. Lynne commutes between India, Jamaica and the UK forever extending her knowledge, collecting ideas and teaching.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Friday 2 March - Sunday 4 March
SPRING IN THE GARDEN
Tutor: Phil Gamble.
A practical hands-on weekend covering: propagation, pruning and planting trees, shrubs and roses, sowing and planting in the vegetable garden, feeding and mulching and choosing new plants. Phil explains and demonstrates the "what to do when and how" to everything in the springtime garden. This course includes illustrated talks and a visit to a nearby garden which will be sure to inspire you.
Popular speaker Phil Gamble is a gardens adviser and tutor who specialises in short courses, illustrated talks and practical demonstrations. He worked for many years as a college lecturer at Kingston Maurward and has also been a Head Gardener.
Fee: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Friday 9 - Sunday 11 March
PRIVATE EMBROIDERY GROUP

Tuesday 13 March 10.30pm - 4.30pm
DYNAMIC DRAWING
Tutor: Jill Jones
If you want to 'loosen up', learn perspective in a different way, gain a new dimension to your drawing skills, this is the day for you! Come prepared to learn, have fun and work! Today is about confidence building and gaining fluidity in hand-eye co-ordination. Jill is an experienced Tutor and will help you gain the most from your day's drawing.
Jill has a BA (Hons) Drawing and won the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship to pursue an MA in Botanical Drawing at the University of the West of England. She has won several awards for her work and exhibits regularly.
Fee: £40, in advance please.
This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Friday 16 - Sunday 18 March
A DIGITAL CAMERA EXPERIENCE
Tutor: Richard Tucker
A course for the digital camera enthusiast. Learn how to get the best from your digital camera and take more creative images. There will be an excursion to photogenic locations so don't forget your camera gear (and manual). Though facilities for viewing your pictures will be available it would be useful to bring your own laptop if possible. Some time will also be spent on digitally enhancing pictures on the computer.
Richard Tucker is a Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society, he was a lecturer for the Nikon School and former professional photographer.
Web: www.rtfract.com
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115 .

Saturday 17 March
BOTANICAL PAINTING WORKSHOP
Tutor: Christina Hart-Davies
(see also 24 Feb 21-23 Sept & 17 Nov) To book contact Christina Hart-Davies on 01202 671190
A series of themed workshops for people with some botanical art experience.
Christina Hart-Davies is a professional botanical artist and RHS Gold Medallist. She is an experienced Tutor and has illustrated many gardening and wildflower books. She is currently working on a new British Flora. She has tutored many courses in painting.

Sunday 18 March 12.30pm
MOTHERING SUNDAY ROAST
Vegetarians catered for)
Come and join us for a leisurely Sunday lunch in the idyllic surroundings of The Kingcombe Centre known for its good food and hospitality. The adjacent Kingcombe Meadows in springtime are perfect for that before or after lunch stroll.
Cost: £10 in advance please. Booking essential

Friday 23 - Sunday 25 March
MUDDY WELLIES WEEKEND
Join us for a volunteer working session. There are plenty of tasks to be tackled this season in the gardens of the Centre and Beech Cottage and general maintenance around the site.
Be prepared to work for at least six hours each day. You are very welcome to join in for part of this weekend; we ask you to pay a contribution of £7.50 per night, in advance please, to cover food costs.

Saturday 24 March
YOGA WORKSHOP
Led by Anne Harte, in Beech Cottage
For further details and booking contact
Anne Harte on 01305 853790
(see also 27 Jan, 23 June, 22 Sept & 10 Nov )
Yoga is a philosophy, a science and an art. It develops strength, flexibility and control in the body. The practice of breathing techniques calms the mind, developing enhanced awareness and the ability to be still. Yoga is totally noncompetitive and so all can develop at their own pace without strain. This day at Kingcombe will have plenty for everyone to enjoy and benefit from and is suitable for total beginners.
Anne Harte has many years’ experience of Yoga. She holds two Yoga teaching qualifications and runs Adult Education and private classes in South and West Dorset. Morning and afternoon refreshments will be provided but bring lunch to share.

Monday 26– Friday 30 March
INTERPRETING THE LANDSCAPE
The Forest of Blackmoor: a case study
Tutor: Dr Oliver Rackham
We shall combine research into Anglo-Saxon perambulations, early documentation, historic maps and even references in Thomas Hardy's novels with field studies of prehistoric and mediaeval earthworks, ancient trees and present-day vegetation. This will enable us to continue to add to the picture of the landscape history of this fascinating and little known part of North West Dorset that we have built up over the last six years' courses.
Dr Oliver Rackham is a Fellow of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, a botanist and an international authority on the history of vegetation of Europe, particularly Greece and Crete, and also of North America. His latest book 'Woodlands' is the celebratory 100th in the Collins New Naturalist Series, with an account in chapter 20 of our investigations in the Forest of Blackmoor.
Fees: RC £250, RB £280, NR £190.

Friday 30 – Sunday 1 April
HISTORY & ECOLOGY OF WOODLANDS
Tutor: Dr Oliver Rackham.
With lectures and field visits to three sites, we shall examine some of the different kinds of evidence which provide clues to the history of woodlands, with particular reference to the many wooded areas of Dorset. This evidence will include the woodland vegetation, archaeology, local building construction, early documents and maps, and the presence of ancient trees.
Dr Oliver Rackham is a Fellow of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, a botanist and an international authority on the history of vegetation of Europe, particularly Greece and Crete, and also of North America. His latest book 'Woodlands' is the celebratory 100th in the Collins New Naturalist Series.
Fees: RC £150, RB £165, NR £135

Saturday 31 March 10.30am - 4.30pm
POETRY SCHOOL WORKSHOP
Tutors: Pam Zinnerman-Hope & Paul Hyland
The Poetry School is the only organisation in Britain to focus solely on the teaching of poetry to adults offering unique courses which explore key elements of poetic practice in detail.
To book contact The Poetry School Tel: 0845 223 5274
Web: www.poetryschool.com

Monday 2 April - Thursday 5 April
‘TOUCHING THE PAST’
Tutor: Chris Tripp
N.B.This course starts at lunchtime Monday
Archaeology is for everyone, not just for academics. The finding of artefacts made by the people of the past brings us into direct contact with them. No one else will have touched the object you find on a site since it was lost hundreds or thousands of years ago by the person who last used it. This is the opportunity to learn essential skills and many different aspects of archaeology. During the course we will visit monuments in the area, process artefacts and even have a chance to 'touch the past' on our very own 'Kingcombe Dig'! You may have read about history but in archaeology you can make it.
A graduate in archaeology Chris also took an MA in Heritage Management and Public Archaeology. He is a member of the Institute of Field Archaeologists. Chris has been teaching field techniques in Essex and London for twenty years. He was an archaeological advisor for Time Team's 'The Big Dig' in 2003.
Fees: RC £190, RB £212, NR £145.

Tuesday 3 April 10am - 1pm
KINGCOMBE EGG HUNT
For 5 - 8 year olds & parents
A half day activity hunting for The Kingcombe Sowmead egg. A hunt with a difference on an environmental theme in and around The Kingcombe Centre whilst appreciating this idyllic and tranquil part of west Dorset.
Wellingtons essential.
Fee: £5 per child. Accompanying adults free, please book in advance. This includes morning refreshments and an egg.
Lunch will be available to be purchased from The Centre afterwards if you like.

Tuesday 3 - Thursday 5 April
CLASSICAL GUITAR AT KINGCOMBE
Tutors: Wendy Partridge LTCL and
Helena Dyson LRAM, Cert Ed
Ensemble playing is great fun, and this weekend will enable guitarists of all abilities to enjoy making a wide range of music together in the beautiful environment of Kingcombe.
Wendy and Helena are experienced performers and teachers and their enthusiastic and encouraging approach promises a stimulating and enjoyable weekend.
Fees: RC £152, RB £167, NR £115
When booking please indicate approximate standard of playing.

Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 April
EASTER WALKING WEEKEND
With wine and cheese tasting
Led by George Booker & friends
Three days of relaxing and leisurely walks (approximately 6-10 miles) in the magical West Dorset countryside as it wakes up to the spring. Breathtaking scenery, fresh air, good company and a tremendous richness of wildlife everywhere.
Fees: RC £165, RB £185, NR £120.

Sunday 8 – Friday 13 April
BED & BREAKFAST OPPORTUNITY
The Centre will be available for Bed and Breakfast bookings. So why not come and get away from it all in the idyllic countryside surrounding Kingcombe or continue to enjoy yourself following the Easter Walking Weekend.

Thursday 12 April 10am - 4pm
ENVIRONMENTAL GAMES DAY
For 8 - 11 year olds
A fun day of playing different games, active and quiet, to learn about animals, plants and their environment, and how they are adapted to live there.
Fee: £10 in advance please. This includes refreshments. Wellingtons and a packed lunch are essential!

Friday 13 - Sunday 15 April
HENLEY & GORING RAMBLERS
Residential visit.

Saturday 14 April 10.30am - 4pm
HEDGES Their history, ecology and importance in the countryside.
Tutors: Bryan Edwards & Claire Pinder Hedges are an enormously important element in the southern English landscape. The Kingcombe valley has lost far fewer of its hedgerows than most farms and many of the field systems are ancient. The majority of the farm is managed under the Countryside Stewardship Scheme (Historic Landscapes section). During this study day we shall be exploring the archaeology of the field systems and the botanical composition of the hedges.
Bryan Edwards works for the Dorset Environmental Record Centre as a site surveyor and recorder. Claire Pinder works for the DCC Archaeological Service.
Fee:£30,in advance please. This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Sunday 15 April 12.30pm
KINGCOMBE SUNDAY ROAST
(Vegetarians catered for)
Come and join us for a leisurely Sunday lunch in the idyllic surroundings of The Kingcombe Centre known for its good food and hospitality. The adjacent Kingcombe Meadows in springtime are perfect for that before or after lunch stroll.
Cost: £10 in advance please. Booking essential

Friday 20 - Sunday 22 April
NATURE BEYOND SCIENCE
Tutors: Matthew Oates, Sophie Lake & David Russell
(The weekend is being run on behalf of VINE: Values in Nature & Environment (see www.vineproject.org.uk ) by three of VINE's steering group members. )
A weekend event, rather than a course, working together to explore our relationships with Nature beyond the clutter of science. We may lightly explore the feelings and emotions we have towards Nature, and examine the values we hold. Some participants may wish to develop personal statements encapsulating their beliefs about Nature.
The weekend will look at the philosophy and psychology of our relationship with Nature, aided by literature, and humour, and inspired by April at Kingcombe. Above all, the weekend seeks to help people to reconnect to their love of nature as an inspiration for their work within the environmental movement.
Matthew Oates is a naturalist-writer with a background in philosophy and a love of English literature. David Russell is a writer on conservation and a counsellor. Sophie Lake has a doctorate in grazing ecology and has interests in holistic science and eco-feminism.
Fees: RC£147, RB £162, NR £115.

Friday 20 - Sunday 22 April
LOWER PLANTS OF WEST DORSET
Lichens, Mosses & Liverworts
Tutor: Bryan Edwards
Through field visits and working with microscopes at the Centre, we shall investigate the great abundance of Lower Plants in the Kingcombe/Powerstock area. This weekend will be suitable for beginners as well as for more experienced Lower Plant enthusiasts.
Bryan Edwards works for the Dorset Environmental Record Centre as a site surveyor and recorder, and through his enthusiasm and experience has accumulated an almost unrivalled knowledge of Dorset's wildlife sites and their flora and fauna.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Monday 23 - Wednesday 25 April
EXPLORING COLOURED PENCILS
Tutor: Jill Jones
N.B.This course starts at Monday lunchtime.
Coloured pencils are a versatile and vibrant medium. Many innovative techniques can be applied, giving beautiful results with minimum fuss and equipment. In this short course Jill will aim to open many approaches and possibilities to working with this medium. Although the approach is structured come prepared to learn, have fun and work! Jill is an experienced Tutor and will help you gain the most from your course. All ability levels are welcome.
Jill has a BA (Hons) Drawing and won the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship to pursue an MA in Botanical Drawing at the University of the West of England. She has won several awards for her work and exhibits regularly.
Fees: RC £150, RB £165, NR £125.

Monday 23 - Wednesday 25 April
WOODTURNING COURSE
Tutor: Patrick O’Dowd (Max 6)
N.B.This course starts at Monday lunchtime.
A two and a half day practical opportunity for beginners and improvers to learn the art of woodturning, green and seasoned, soft and hardwood, from an experienced craftsman using powered lathes. Equipment and tools will be available however you may bring your own if preferred.
Patrick is a local craftsman/woodturner with over 20 years experience in industrial and craft turning work. He recently exhibited in Sladers Yard, West Bay, Bridport.
At the end of the course you will have produced at least one ‘work of art’ .
Fee: RC £150, RB £165, NR £125.

Friday 27 - Sunday 29 April
ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE
Tutor: Alice Knight MSAT
This introductory small group course is designed so that each student will experience some individual hands-on teaching combined with walks in the wonderful countryside around The Centre. The course will be structured so that beginners and those with some previous experience can benefit. The Alexander Technique teaches a way of using your body efficiently which improves posture and brings a sense of well being. It helps you deal with stress and a variety of health problems such as back pain, difficulties with breathing and the use of the voice. It also improves performance in work, music, drama
and sport.
Alice Knight trained as an Alexander teacher in London and in 1990 moved to Bath where she has taught groups at the University.
Fees:RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Friday 27- Sunday 29 April
WILLOW WEAVING WORKSHOP
Tutor: Norah Kennedy. (Max no 10)
N.B . This course starts at Friday lunchtime. Two and a half days of weaving colourful willow into shapes of your choice. You may decide to spend the time making one or two baskets or you might want to make a structure or container to support and enhance your garden or perhaps even some simple decorations. Whatever you decide to do you will be helped and encouraged by Norah who is an experienced teacher. There will be supporting materials available to help and inspire you. All equipment is supplied by the tutor. This course is suitable for beginners and improvers.
Norah has been teaching willow workshops at Kingcombe for fifteen years. Her interest lies in making baskets that are “right in themselves and good for use” and reviving at least a portion of the many traditional uses for willow that have been superseded, but not surpassed, by synthetic materials.
Norah Kennedy is a full time basket-maker and teacher.
Fees: RC £150, RB £165, NR £135 with up to £20 for materials payable during the course.

Monday 30 April 10am - 4.30pm
WILLOW WORK FOR THE GARDEN
Tutor: Norah Kennedy (Max no 12)
There is more to willow than making baskets! We will start by making a simple wigwam suitable for sweet peas and go on to create hurdles and fans for climbing plants, and some small edging hurdles for borders. You can expect to make 3 or 4 items each so leave space for these in your car on the journey home! The cost of materials (about £10) will be due on the day of the course.
Fee: £40, in advance please.
This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Friday 4 – Sunday 6 May
BIRDSONG IN NATURE AND HUMAN
CULTURE
Tutor: Jeffery Boswall
Assistant Tutor: Rees Cox
A celebration of the natural wonder of bird song and of how it has inspired human prose, poetry and music. Why, how, what and when do birds sing? Do they have a musical sense anticipating ours, as well as singing for more practical reasons? There are walks, including one on International Dawn Chorus Day (the Sunday); and some other sessions are in the open air, weather permitting. Indoors we listen to recordings of avian and human music, to readings of literature and verse and view a few videos.
Jeffery Boswall is a serious amateur ornithologist who in 60 years has listened to feathered songsters in over 60 countries. He is co-author of the Peterson's Field Guide to the Bird Songs of Britain and Europe. He was on the staff of the BBC Natural History Unit for almost 30 years, and both before and after worked full-time for the RSPB. Jeffery is a committed populariser of natural history and is not entirely without a sense of humour.
Rees Cox is a recently retired professional nature reserve warden with a special interest in bird language.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Sunday 6 May 9.30am - 4.30pm
WALKING WITH MAP-READING
Leader: Marion Langridge
(See also 3 June & 1 July)
A relaxed day course when we shall look at navigation/map reading skills in a friendly way. From understanding map information, aligning this to the land, finding our way using a compass and landmarks and pinpointing our position, all as we enjoy the wonderful countryside of west Dorset. The walk will average 6-7 miles, in all weather conditions.
Please bring a packed lunch, suitable footwear and clothing for all weather conditions. We shall return to The Kingcombe Centre for afternoon tea.
Fee: £ 20 in advance please.

Monday 7 May
BANK HOLIDAY LUNCHES
Served between 12.00pm-2.00pm
Come and join us for a leisurely Bank Holiday lunch, good food and hospitality.

Monday 7 - Friday 11 May
DORSET BIRDS AND THEIR SONGS
Tutors: Gary Dennis & Friends
During this four-day course we shall explore some of the best bird habitats in Dorset–woodlands, heathland, saltmarsh, sand dunes, sea cliffs, at a time when the summer migrants will have returned and all the birds will be in fine voice. This course should be of great interest to visually impaired as well as sighted naturalists; to beginners as well as the more experienced.
Fees. RC £250, RB £280, NR £190 (Concession for visually-impaired participants £170 per person, £110 for sighted guides, or £200 and £150 respectively for Beech Cottage)

Tuesday 8 May 10.30am - 4.30pm
AN ARTISTIC INSIGHT INTO TREES
Tutor: Jill Jones
Come and join us for a one-day workshop concentrating on trees: their growth, structure, form, colour and the characteristics of different species. Jill will encourage you to solve and overcome any difficulties you may have encountered. This workshop is designed for all levels of ability and you are welcome to work in the medium of your choice and be as experimental or traditional as you wish.
Jill has a BA (Hons) Drawing and won the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship to pursue an MA in Botanical Drawing at the University of the West of England. She has won several awards for her work and exhibits regularly.
Fee: £40, in advance please. This includes morning coffee; afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Friday 11 - Sunday 13 May
BIRDSONG OF THE KINGCOMBE VALLEY
Tutors: Gary Dennis & Friends
A two day introduction to the birds of the Kingcombe and Powerstock areas, particularly for those who want to identify birds by their songs and calls. The resident birds as well as the migrants will be in full voice. The weekend will include a dawn walk.
Fees. RC £147, RB £162, NR £115 (Concession for visually-impaired participants £110 per person, £60 for sighted guides, or £125 and £75 respectively for Beech Cottage)

Friday 11 - Sunday 13 May
WEEKEND WORKSHOP FOR NOVELISTS
In partnership with Bath Spa University
Tutors: Mimi Thebo & Gerard Woodward
An intensive weekend for beginning novelists,
whether they are struggling with their third attempt or just beginning to write their first Chapter One. Gerard Woodward and Mimi Thebo will take you through various elements of writing full-length fiction and discuss how to market the final product in this high energy workshop-based course.
Mimi and Gerard are both published novelists from the Creative Writing department at Bath Spa University, one of the leading centres for creative writing in the country. Some attendees of this course last year have recently been accepted onto the MA in Creative writing course at Bath Spa University.
Fee: RC £157, RB £172, NR £125.

Sunday 13 May 10.30am. - 4pm
SING YOUR HEARTS OUT!
A day workshop with Sammy Hurden. (See also 18 Feb)
A chance to explore the voice and sing in harmony in the beautiful environment of Kingcombe. No previous experience or reading of music necessary, just a love of singing with songs ranging from African to Soul. Sammy Hurden has been running singing workshops for many years. She has composed for TV and film and has played Piano and sung in many jazz, soul and acappella groups.
Fee: £22.50, in advance please. This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Monday 14 May - Friday 18 May
WESSEX GARDENS IN SPRING
Tutor: Phil Gamble
Many of England's finest gardens await you . A feast of guided walks, talks from the head gardeners and owners, tea on the lawns surrounded by blooming borders, practical demonstrations of gardening skills and plenty of time to wander through beautifully kept landscapes. We will visit gardens rarely open to the public as well as the grand favourites on our doorstep. Illustrated talks in the evenings will serve to whet your appetite for the next day and develop themes such as the use of colour, plant combinations, garden history and looking at plants in close up.
With a background as Head Gardener, popular speaker & Kingston Maurward College lecturer, Phil Gamble is a gardens adviser and tutor developing both public and private projects; specialising in short courses, design work, illustrated talks, practical demonstrations and guided walks.
Fee: RC £250, RB £280, NR £190.
There will be an additional charge of approximately £25 for entrance fees payable during the week.

Friday 18 - Monday 21 May
WILDLIFE SOUND RECORDING SOCIETY
Residential visit.

Tuesday 22 - Friday 25 May
WESTFIELD TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE
WEYMOUTH
Residential visit.

Friday 25 - Tuesday 29 May
WHITSUN WALKING
Leader: Arthur Simmonds
NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST from KINGCOMBE
The Kingcombe Valley is situated in such an unspoiled part of the country that whichever way you walk, there are delightful places to explore. The aim each day is to set out in a different compass direction from the Centre
on a linear or circular walk at a time of year when flowers and wildlife are abundant. For those who took part in last year¹s holiday, these walks will be different although some familiar ground may be covered in the reserve near the centre. This will not matter as the natural world is full of surprises! To give an idea of the walks, the following places will be included: Eggardon Hill, Hive Beach at Burton Bradstock, Bracketts Coppice DWT Reserve and Cerne Abbas. The maximum distance covered will be about 10 miles and as we head out from the centre on foot each day, we shall have plenty of time to enjoy our surroundings.
Fees: RC £250, RB £280, NR £190.

Monday 28 May
BANK HOLIDAY LUNCHES
Served between 12.00pm-2.00pm
Come and join us for a leisurely Bank Holiday lunch in the idyllic surroundings of The Kingcombe Centre known for its good food and hospitality. The adjacent Kingcombe Meadows in early summer are perfect for that before or after lunch stroll.

Tuesday 29 May - Friday 1 June
DESIGNING YOUR GARDEN WITH NATURE
Tutor: Ruth Collier
N.B. This course starts at 10am Tuesday
The course Ruth has devised for the Kingcombe Centre will enable you to plan and design your garden in tune with nature. There will be a day of pre-course preparation in your own garden which will become the basis of your design during the week. Information for this will be sent on booking. There is no drawing skill required. During the week there will also be garden visits to inspire you plus question and answer opportunities with gardeners.
Ruth has been designing gardens for ten years. For the past four she has also taught and inspired others with their own garden designs. Ruth specialises in bringing to life those awkward garden corners.
Fees: RC £190, RB £212, NR £145.

31 May 10am- 4pm
SHELTER BUILDING DAY
For 8 - 11 year olds
A day of great fun building shelters using hazel rods and foliage and then testing them against the elements. You will also look at real nests and how they are constructed before being challenged to build your own and then take part in a nest building competition.
Fee: £10 in advance please. This includes morning and afternoon refreshments. Wellingtons, waterproof clothing and a packed lunch are essential!

Friday 1 - Sunday 3 June
GRASSES, SEDGES, RUSHES & REEDS
Tutor: Brian Gale
In the splendid Nature Reserves around Kingcombe (Kingcombe Meadows and Powerstock Common) there is a superb assortment of grasses, sedges, rushes, and reeds. During this weekend we shall enjoy ourselves looking at these intriguing flowering plants growing in their wild habitats and at The Centre we shall examine specimens under microscopes, study their structure and classification, and have fun identifying them using various methods.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Friday 1 - Sunday 3 June
PAINTING WILDFLOWERS IN SUMMER
Botanical Illustration Weekend
Tutor: Mary Tarraway, BSc Special Botany
A weekend workshop to explore ways of painting and drawing wildflowers in watercolour. There will also be illustrated talks and extra help for beginners.
Mary specialises in watercolour, pen and ink studies and etchings of plants drawn from live specimens. After retiring Mary has devoted much of her time to painting and exhibiting in London and Dorset. Mary loves teaching, fieldwork and has an inherent talent for design.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Sunday 3 June 9.30am - 4.30pm
WALKING WITH MAP-READING
See also: 6 May & 1 July
Leader: Marion Langridge
A relaxed day course when we shall look at navigation/map reading skills in a friendly way. From understanding map information, aligning this to the land, finding your way using a compass and landmarks and pinpointing our position, all as we enjoy the wonderful countryside of west Dorset. The walk will average 6-7 miles, in all weather conditions.
Please bring a packed lunch, suitable footwear and clothing for all weather conditions. We shall return to The Kingcombe Centre for afternoon tea.
Fee: £ 20 in advance please.

Monday 4 June 10am - 4pm
THE PRIMITVE ART OF FLINT KNAPPING
Tutor: Karl Lee
A day's workshop learning the primitive skills of our forefathers. During the day you will be guided through this long lost skill and learn how to make the tools of our ancestors, from flint arrow heads to primitive axes and even jewellery. Karl Lee has a PhD in archaeology and is one of the country’s leading flint knappers and primitive technologists. He has over 15 years teaching experience and has featured on many TV programmes as well as presenting lectures at the Royal Academy and The British Museum. Karl is an instructor for Bushcraft Expeditions.
Web: www.bushcraftexpeditions.com
Fee: £40 in advance please. This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Monday 4 - Friday 8 June
PAINTING SUMMER PLANTS IN WATERCOLOUR
Tutor: Elizabeth Smail FLS, FSBA
A special opportunity to explore ways of painting plants with a well-known professional botanical artist in a relaxed and friendly workshop atmosphere. We welcome all levels of experience and will adapt the course to individual needs, styles and interests, using the wealth of material in the fields and hedgerows around the Centre.
Elizabeth Smail is a Fellow of the Linnean Society of London and holds two SBA Certificates of Botanical Merit. She is a Founder Member of the Society of Botanical Artists and an enthusiastic and experienced tutor.
Fee: RC £290, RB £320, NR £260

Friday 8 - Sunday 10 June
BRISTOL UNIVERSITY
Residential visit

Monday 11 - Friday 15 June
HEATHERTON HOUSE SCHOOL
Residential visit

Friday 15 - Monday 18 June
HERTS MAMMAL GROUP
Private booking

Friday 15 - Sunday 17 June
PRIVATE BOOKING BEECH

Monday 18 - Tuesday 19 June
WESTFIELD TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE
Residential visit

Wednesday 20 - Friday 22 June
ST MARY’S CATHOLIC FIRST SCHOOL
Residential visit

Friday 22 - Sunday 24 June
CALLIGRAPHY SCRIPT AND COLOUR
Tutor: Gaynor Goffe
All levels welcome as much of the tuition is on an individual basis, with frequent group demonstrations. There will be a wide choice of scripts both traditional and experimental; attention will be given to learning and improving these. Guided exercises and projects will be included with an opportunity to experiment with colour in the pen and background.
Gaynor Goffe is a freelance calligrapher and Fellow of the Calligraphy & Lettering Arts Society and has over 26 years' experience of teaching calligraphy at all levels, in the UK and abroad. Her two books, 'Calligraphy Made Easy' and 'Calligraphy Step by Step' (with A. Ravenscroft) were published in 1994.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Saturday 23 June
YOGA WORKSHOP
Led by Anne Harte, in Beech Cottage
For further details and booking contact
Anne Harte on 01305 853790
(see also 27 Jan, 24 March, 22 Sept & 10 Nov)
Yoga is a philosophy, a science and an art. It develops strength, flexibility and control in the body. The practice of breathing techniques calms the mind, developing enhanced awareness and the ability to be still. Yoga is totally non-competitive and so all can develop at their own pace without strain. This day at Kingcombe will have plenty for everyone to enjoy and benefit from and is suitable for total beginners.
Anne Harte has many years’ experience of Yoga. She holds two Yoga teaching qualifications and runs Adult Education and private classes in South and West Dorset. Morning and afternoon refreshments will be provided but bring lunch to share..

Monday 25 - Friday 29 June
WATERCOLOUR PAINTING IN WEST DORSET
Tutor: Lorraine Sherlock
The Kingcombe Centre offers the watercolour artist a wide range of subject matter in the idyllic surrounding landscape. Views over fields and hills, farm buildings, still and flowing water, trees, plants and animals offer inspiration all around in unspoilt farmland. You will work outdoors as much as the weather permits and with a combination of demonstrations, presentations and personal attention you will be encouraged to develop your own style whatever your level and experience with watercolours.
Lorraine Sherlock is an experienced Adult Education art tutor. She runs classes and workshops teaching the skills of watercolour painting, pastels and mixed media. She particularly enjoys painting the countryside, flora and fauna that are found in Dorset. This is the County in which she usually exhibits her work.
Fees: RC £290, RB £320, NR £260.

Friday 29 June - Sunday 1 July
INVESTIGATING THE LANDSCAPE HISTORY OF THE LOWER KINGCOMBE VALLEY
Tutor: Dr Oliver Rackham & Nigel Spring
The valley that stretches from Toller Porcorum (Swines Toller) through Lower Kingcombe up to Toller Whelme where the river Hooke rises, has been shaped by natural forces and by the hand of man since the days of the Celtic farmers and possibly earlier. During this course, we shall look for geomorphological, archaeological and ecological clues to help us to understand the landscape history of this complex and fascinating area of Dorset, building on the findings of last year's stimulating weekend. The spectacular flower-rich meadows of Kingcombe should be at their best at this time.
Dr Oliver Rackham is a Fellow of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, a botanist and an international authority on the history of vegetation of Europe, particularly Greece and Crete, and also of North America. His latest book 'Woodlands' is the celebratory 100th in the Collins New Naturalist Series.
Fees: RC £157, RB £172, NR £125

Saturday 30 June 10.30am - 4.30pm
POETRY SCHOOL WORKSHOP
Tutor: Judy Gahagan
The Poetry School is the only organisation in Britain to focus solely on the teaching of poetry to adults offering unique courses which explore key elements of poetic practice in detail.
To book contact The Poetry School
Tel: 0845 223 5274
Web: www.poetryschool.com

Sunday 1 July 9.30am-4.30pm
WALKING WITH MAP-READING
Leader: Marion Langridge
(See also 6 May & 3 June)
A relaxed day course when we shall look at navigation/map reading skills in a friendly way. From understanding map information, aligning this to the land, finding our way using a compass and landmarks and pinpointing our position, all as we enjoy the wonderful countryside of West Dorset. The walk will average 6-7 miles, in all weather conditions.
Please bring a packed lunch, suitable footwear and clothing for all weather conditions. We shall return to The Kingcombe Centre for afternoon tea.
Fee: £ 20 in advance please.

Monday 2 - Friday 6 July
CASTLE COURT SCHOOL
Residential visit.

Wednesday 4 - Friday 6 July
MANAGING GRASSLAND FOR CONSERVATION
Tutor: Paul Toynton
N.B. This course starts at 10am on Wednesday. B&B is available on Tuesday night if required.
Britain has developed a wonderful heritage of grasslands rich in wildlife over centuries of agricultural management. Now pressure from intensive farming, development, forestry and abandonment severely threaten the remaining fragments and the species of plants and animals associated with the grassland. These remaining, usually isolated, fragments have to be managed carefully if they are to survive. This course should be of value to anyone interested in the management of grasslands, whether amateur, professional or conservation volunteer. It will include the historical dimension; principles of grassland management; identification of grasses and associated plants; recording and monitoring; evaluation and re-creation. It will involve lectures and several site visits.
Paul Toynton has managed grasslands for wildlife for over 30 years, formerly for English Nature and now for The Ministry of Defence. Before that he trained and worked in agriculture.
Fees: RC £157, RB £172, NR £127.

Friday 6 – Sunday 8 July
FRIENDS OF THE KINGCOMBE CENTRE
A weekend for The Friends of The Kingcombe
Centre for socialising and enjoying these idyllic surroundings. During the weekend The Summer Fair, The Friends’ major fundraising event of the year on behalf of The Kingcombe Centre takes place. Please come prepared to assist in the running of the Fair. Friends who wish to help on a daily basis will be most welcome. Further details will be sent out in the first part of the year to members of the Friends group via the Friends Newsletter.
For information about membership please contact the Centre
Fees: RC £50, RB £65, NR £20

Sunday 8 July 11 - 4pm
KINGCOMBE CENTRE SUMMER FAIR
Everybody welcome
Various stalls
Games
Fun for all the family
All money raised will go to upgrading The Cowshed.
Please come and support us.

Monday 9 - Sunday 15 July
WILDFLOWERS OF DORSET
Tutor: Patrick Harding
A six-day course which will include visits to a wide range of habitats (coastal, meadow, heathland) and at least one garden. In addition to identifying both plants and trees, participants will learn about the medicinal use of plants, have time for photography (and the occasional cream tea!) And enjoy listening to poetry and prose about flowers. After supper events will include local walks and relaxing slide shows.
Patrick Harding has taught adults for over 20 years, mainly at Sheffield University. He has written two books on fungi, one on trees and one on wildflowers of the Peak District. His latest work is on Christmas customs. An enthusiastic teacher, he enjoys finding links between subjects and bridging science and the arts.
Fees: RC £320, RB £365, NR £255.

Thursday 12 July 10.30am - 4pm
TINY TERRESTIAL ORGANISMS
Tutor: Brian Gale
In the countryside around us many organisms are scarcely noticed because individually they are too tiny to see with the naked eye. Today we shall open our eyes to a whole new world detecting, for example, viruses, phytoplasmas, bacteria, protozoa, chromists, micro-algae, micro-fungi, mites, spring-tails, aphids, leaf-miners, and galling-insects. Many of the above are parasitic; or they cadge a lift on plants, lichens, insects, or vertebrates. We shall have an exciting time: bring a hand-lens even a microscope if you have one.
Fee: £40 in advance please
This includes morning coffee, afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Monday 16 - Friday 20 July
DORSET LANDSCAPES IN SUMMER
Tutor: Tony Paul
Beginners, and more experienced painters, will benefit from this course which will take advantage of the wonderful and varied subjects around Kingcombe. An excursion will be made to West Bay to paint fishing boats, quays and other marine paraphernalia, and to a beautiful local garden. There will be useful studio sessions on colour mixing and other techniques, with videos to round off the days' activities. Whether you paint in watercolour, pastel, oils or acrylic, you will find this an ideal opportunity to improve the standard of your work.
Tony Paul is an experienced tutor of adults of all abilities and is a contributor to the magazine 'Leisure Painter'. He has exhibited several times in the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and in the Royal Society of Marine Artists.
Fees: RC £290, RB £320, NR £260.

Friday 20 - Sunday 22 July
NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE HEART OF DORSET
Tutor: John Bebbington
This course is designed to demonstrate techniques and to solve problems for newcomers to close-up and macro photography of plants and invertebrates whilst giving excellent opportunities for more experienced workers in a region of exceptional species richness. The weekend will begin with an examination of the problems faced by the close-up photographer in general and by group members in particular and points raised will be dealt with during the weekend. The intention is that everyone will finish the course with some practice and confidence in at least basic photographic techniques and ways of approaching potential subjects.
John Bebbington FRPS specialises in close-up photography of flowers and insects and has led photography courses in the UK and abroad since 1979. In 1991 he was awarded Fellowship of the Royal Photographic Society for a panel of slides on the theme of protective colouration in Butterflies and Moths, and is a past member of the Royal Photographic Society's Associateship & Fellowship Panel in the Nature category.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Monday 23 - Friday 27 July
UNDERSTANDING BUTTERFLIES
Leaders: Matthew Oates, Gail & Stephen Jeffcoate
This course is part of Butterfly Conservation’s annual ' Save our Butterflies' week.
The aim of this week is not only to enjoy the butterflies of Dorset in the peak week of summer for butterfly diversity (in the equivalent week in 2006, we saw over 30 species) but also to learn practical skills and deepen understanding. We hope that participants will come away enthused and with an expanded knowledge of these creatures, the needs of their different life stages and their habitat and landscape-scale requirements. This course looks at all life-stages, not just adult butterflies, and mixes humour, aesthetics and science. We will visit the wide range of habitats that Dorset provides and review the habitat and landscape management needed for their conservation in the face of growing human-derived threats.
Matthew Oates is a senior ecologist with the National Trust specializing in butterfly ecology and conservation grazing: he appeared in BBC1's 'Great British Summer' in November 2006.
Gail and Stephen Jeffcoate are leading volunteers with the charity 'Butterfly Conservation'.
Fees: RC £250, RB £280, NR £190.

Friday 27 - Sunday 29 July
EXPLORING DORSET'S CHURCHES
Tutor: Dr Karin Mew (Max no 15)
This year we go off the beaten track once again as we visit churches in and around two distinctive regions of the county, namely the Marshwood Vale and the Blackmoor Vale. These include the tin tabernacle field church of St Saviour at Dottery, purpose-built for agricultural workers; the stunning Catholic church at Chideock, famous for its Catholic martyrs whose story is told in the museum there; the medieval church of St Mary at Holnest which stands alone in a field and has white painted box pews and candle sconces and the church of St Thomas Becket at Lydlinch.
Fees: RC £150, RB £165, NR £120.

Sunday 29 July 10am - 4pm
CLASSICAL GUITAR DAY AT KINGCOMBE
Tutor: Wendy Partridge LTCL & Helena Dyson LRAM, Cert Ed
Ensemble playing is great fun, and this day will enable guitarists of all abilities to enjoy making a wide range of music together in the beautiful environment of Kingcombe.
Wendy and Helena are experienced performers and teachers and their enthusiastic and encouraging approach promises a stimulating and enjoyable time.
Fee: £40 in advance please. This includes morning coffee; afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.
When booking please indicate approximate standard of playing.

Monday 30 July 10am - 4pm
ENVIRONMENTAL GAMES DAY
For 8 - 11 year olds
A day of playing different games, active and quiet, to learn about animals, plants and their environment, and how they are adapted to live there.
Fee: £10 in advance please. This includes morning and afternoon refreshments. Wellingtons and a packed lunch are essential!

Tuesday 31 July 10am - 1pm
EXPLORING LIFE IN FRESHWATER
A half-day for 5-8 year olds and parents to enjoy the marvels of life in the River Hooke and nearby ponds.
Fee: £5 per child. Accompanying adults free, book in advance. This includes morning refreshments.
Wellingtons essential.
Lunch may be purchased from the Centre afterwards if required.

Tuesday 31 July 6.30pm
KINGCOMBE EVENING MEAL
(Vegetarians catered for)
Booking essential
Come and join us for an evening by the River Hooke and enjoy a delicious meal using locally sourced ingredients. These evenings are part of our Fundraising efforts for the upgrading of the Centre facilities.
Cost: £12 in advance please.
Two course meal including coffee.
Licensed premises.

Wednesday 1 August 6.30pm
KINGCOMBE EVENING MEAL
(Vegetarians catered for)
Booking essential
Come and join us for an evening by the River Hooke and enjoy a delicious meal using locally sourced ingredients. These evenings are part of our Fundraising efforts for the upgrading of the Centre facilities.
Cost:£12 in advance please.
Two course meal including coffee.
Licensed premises.

Thursday 2 August 10.30am - 4pm
BUTTERFLY DAY AT KINGCOMBE & POWERSTOCK COMMON
with Colin Burningham.
A day for children and the rest of the family to learn about and enjoy the butterflies in the Kingcombe area. This may involve driving the short distance to Powerstock Common in shared cars.
A parent must accompany children under ten.
Fees: Children and adults £7, In advance please. Children under 5 free.
This includes morning coffee; afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Wellingtons and suitable clothing required.

Thursday 2 August 6.30pm.
KINGCOMBE EVENING MEAL
(Vegetarians catered for)
Booking essential
Come and join us for an evening by the River Hooke and enjoy a delicious meal using locally sourced ingredients. These evenings are part of our Fundraising efforts for the upgrading of the Centre facilities.
Cost:£12 in advance please.
Two course meal including coffee.
Licensed premises.

Friday 3 - Friday 10 August
A NEW RAVENS WAY WALK
Leader: Arthur Simmonds
This walk will go to the same destination, Studland Bay, as the original Ravens Way walk but via a different route. Initially we will follow the newly-devised Frome Valley Trail from Maiden Newton to beyond Dorchester. Then we head South-East crossing the coastal downs to White Nothe along former smuggling routes. We will have views of the coast, but occasionally drop down to sites of interest or divert to nature reserves. The end of the walk will be a crossing of the heaths to Studland.
Each day will include a generous lunch stop and transport to and from the start and finish.
This will be the 12th year that Arthur Simmonds has led walks at Kingcombe.
Fees: RC £320, RB£365.

Sunday 5 August 10.30am - 4.30pm
THE WILDLIFE OF THE LULWORTH RANGES
Leader: Bryan Edwards. (Max no 20)
A privileged visit to the heaths and coastal calcareous grasslands, normally closed to the public, at a time when the butterflies, wildflowers and dragonflies should be spectacular.
Bryan Edwards is Survey Officer for the Dorset Environmental Records Centre.
Meet in cars at the gate on the private road beyond Creech Grange, at map reference SY906822. Bring a packed lunch.
Fee: £22.50 In advance please.
PLEASE NOTE: This visit involves a fair amount of walking, and IT WILL NOT BE POSSIBLE FOR ANYONE TO ARRIVE AFTER 10.30AM OR LEAVE BEFORE 4.30PM.

Tuesday 7 August 10am-4pm
FIELDCRAFT DAY
For 10 - 13 year olds
Come and have a go and learn how to use all the field equipment of the naturalist. For example moth trap, binoculars, sweep nets, beating trays, pooters, microscopes. All these will increase your chances of success in looking for the wildlife that abounds in the exceptional habitats of The Kingcombe Centre.
Fee: £10 in advance includes morning and afternoon refreshments. Wellingtons and a packed lunch essential.

Wednesday 8 August 10am - 1pm
TREE ART
For 5 - 8 year olds
Listening to tree themed stories told under fabulous trees, looking at trees and foliage, creating leaf floor pictures and collages using bark and leaf rubbings.
Fee: £5 per child Accompanying adults free, book in advance. This includes morning refreshments Wellingtons essential.
Lunch may be purchased from the Centre afterwards if required.

Friday 10 - Sunday 12 August
BED & BREAKFAST OPPORTUNITY

Monday 13 - Friday 17 August
SUMMER WILDLIFE IN DORSET
Tutor: Dr. Bob Gibbons
August is a very exciting month in many of the
habitats for which Dorset is famous, and we shall be visiting as wide a range of them as we can during this four-day course. We hope to see Adonis Blues on the chalk downlands in the east, Brown Hairstreak butterflies and the rich late summer flora and fauna of the herb rich clay grasslands of central Dorset, the superb heathland specialists that thrive round the Poole Harbour basin, and the stunning scenery and wildlife of the coastal strip. In addition to the day visits there will be moth trapping and an evening looking for bats.
This will be a holiday for non-specialist naturalists who love all facets of the countryside.
Bob Gibbons is an internationally renowned wildlife photographer and author of many books. He runs his own wildlife travel company, Natural History Travel.
Fees: RC £250, RB £280, NR £190.

Tuesday 14 August 10am - 4 pm
WILDLIFE EXPLORERS’ DAY
for 8-11 year olds
A day of bug-hunting, butterfly watching and river dipping, at a time of the year when Kingcombe should be teeming with wildlife.
Fee: £10 in advance includes morning and afternoon refreshments. Wellingtons and a packed lunch essential.

Thursday 16 August 10am - 1pm
EXPLORING LIFE IN FRESHWATER
A half-day for 5-8 year olds and parents to enjoy the marvels of life in the River Hooke and nearby ponds.
Fee: £5 per child. Accompanying adults free, book in advance. This includes morning refreshments Wellingtons essential!
Lunch may be purchased from the Centre afterwards if required.

Friday 17 - Sunday 19 August
WEEKEND WORKSHOP FOR POETS
Tutors: Carrie Etter & Gerard Woodward
In partnership with Bath Spa University
An intensive weekend for poets. Carrie Etter and Gerard Woodward will address important issues in writing poetry and discuss magazine and book publication in this high energy, workshop-based course.
Carrie and Gerard are both widely published poets from the Creative Writing department at Bath Spa University, one of the leading centres for creative writing in the country. Feel free to contact Carrie should you have any questions about the course at: c.etter@bathspa.ac.uk.
Fees: RC £157, RB £172, NR £125.

Monday 20 - Friday 24 August
NATURAL HISTORY FAMILY WEEK
A wonderful opportunity for all the family to get to know the wildlife around Kingcombe on other local nature reserves and the Jurassic coastline. The week will cover a variety of activities including bug hunting, pond and river dipping, moth & butterfly identification, fossil hunting, rock pooling, bird watching, mammal trapping and much, much more.
Fees: Adults £180, Children £140, Beech
Cottage Supplement £30 per person.

Friday 24 - Friday 31 August
BED & BREAKFAST OPPORTUNITY

Sat 25, Sun 26 & Mon 27 August
KINGCOMBE EVENING MEAL
(Vegetarians catered for)
Booking essential
Come and join us for an evening by the River Hooke and enjoy a delicious meal using locally sourced ingredients. These evenings are part of our Fundraising efforts for the upgrading of the Centre facilities.
Cost:£12 in advance please.
Two course meal including coffee.
Licensed premises.

Thursday 30 August 10am - 4pm
ART DAY
For 8 - 11 year olds
A fun day creating ‘art’ using natural materials that can be found around The Kingcombe Centre culminating in a display at the end of the day.
Fee: £10 in advance includes morning and afternoon refreshments. Wellingtons and a packed lunch essential.

Friday 31August - Sunday 2 September
ROCKS, FOSSILS AND LANDFORMS OF
THE JURASSSIC COAST
Tutor: Richard Edmonds
Saturday will be spent visiting Charmouth and the Black Ven Landslide, allowing time for some fossil collecting (weather permitting). In
the afternoon, we will walk out across Beer Head and through the Hooken Landslide, to the picturesque village of Branscombe. Sunday will be in the other direction, a walk across the spectacular Purbeck coast and countryside from the village of Acton to St Aldhelm's Head and Worth Matravers.
Richard Edmonds is Earth Science Manager for the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. He is the author of Fossils (published by Dovecote Press in the Discover Dorset series). Please come prepared for some fairly strenuous walking.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Sunday 2 - Friday 7 September
NEW FOREST RAMBLERS
Residential visit.

Tuesday 4 September 12.30pm - 4.00pm
BANGERS & MASH & BEETLE DRIVE
On an Autumn afternoon come and enjoy good food, good company and fun games. An opportunity to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of The Kingcombe Centre. Come along and support one of several Fund raising events for the upgrading of The Centre facilities.
Cost: £10 in advance please. This includes lunch, games and afternoon tea.

Friday 7 September 10.00am - 4.00pm
MOTH DISSECTION SKILLS
Tutor: Phil Sterling
This course is for those wishing to improve their dissection skills of the internal structures of moths. It is an opportunity to use the facilities of Leeson House laboratory under the guidance of Phil Sterling.
Fee: £22. In advance please. This includes morning coffee and a packed lunch. Meet at Leeson House Field Studies Centre, Langton Matravers.
SZ 004786

Friday 7 - Sunday 9 September
IDENTIFYING MOTHS
Tutor: Phil Sterling
This course is mainly aimed at those wishing to improve their identification skills in moths, large and small. The course will mainly be practical, spending time carefully examining moths from traps set the previous evening. A field trip to one of Dorset's heathland nature reserves, as well as to woods and meadows in the Kingcombe area will ensure we will examine adult moths as well as larvae. Dorset is a fine county for moths and in early autumn we can hope to see immigrant species from southern Europe on the coast.
Phil Sterling has lived and worked in Dorset for the past 14 years. He has been interested in moths since childhood and regularly runs courses, leads field walks and lectures on moths. He works as the Natural Environment Manager at Dorset County Council.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Tuesday 11 - Friday 14 September
MANAGING GRAZING ANIMALS FOR
CONSERVATION
Tutors: Bill Grayson, Matthew Oates, Sophie Lake & Jim Swanson, on behalf of the Grazing Animals Project (GAP)
N.B. This course starts at lunchtime on Tuesday. B&B available on Monday if required
A course for people working at practical and advisory levels in environmental conservation, covering the theory and practice of managing cattle, sheep, equines and goats for nature conservation on grasslands, heaths and pasture woodlands.
Lecture sessions, practical stock-handling demonstrations and visits to sites with informative grazing systems, guided by graziers and farmers.
Bill Grayson is an organic beef and sheep farmer, specialising in delivering conservation grazing regimes. Matthew Oates is senior ecologist for the National Trust, a specialist on grazing and a founder member of GAP. Sophie Lake has a Doctorate in Grazing Ecology and is interested in holistic science. Jim Swanson is a regional grazing scheme coordinator for GAP and a trained vet.
Fees: RC £200, RB £225, NR £160.

Friday 14 - Sunday 16 September
THOMAS HARDY'S WESSEX
Literature, location and landscape
Tutor: Angela Bell (Max no 15)
This weekend offers an opportunity to visit some of the places which form a backdrop to Hardy's novels, short stories and poetry. Over the two days, through visits and readings, links will be made between Wessex locations and specific novels, and there will be an exploration of Hardy's use of place in his poetry and prose. The weekend will include short discussion sessions, and on Saturday evening there will be an opportunity to look more closely at the place of folklore and folk tradition in Hardy's works.
Although specific attention will be paid to the novels: Under the Greenwood Tree and Far from the Madding Crowd, there will also be a discussion of Hardy's life and a range of poetry and prose.
N.B. that there will be some walking on both days (no more than three miles each day)
Angela Bell lectures at Solent University. She has an enthusiastic interest in Thomas Hardy and was on the Council of the Thomas Hardy Society for many years. She is co-author of Advanced Level Media.
Fees: RC £150, RB £165, NR £120.

Monday 17 - Friday 21 September
DRAWING WITH CONFIDENCE
Tutor: Jill Jones
Drawing is a fundamental art skill which underlies all disciplines. This intensive week will offer artists of all abilities the opportunity to develop their drawing potential. Jill is an experienced and enthusiastic tutor, teaching at all levels. Through tried and tested exercises which are designed to be relaxing and fun, Jill will help students progress their awareness and visual vocabulary. Students of all styles and disciplines are welcome.
Jill has a BA (Hons) Drawing and won the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship to pursue an MA in Botanical Drawing at the University of the West of England. She has won several awards for her work and exhibits regularly.
Fees: RC £290, RB £320, NR £260

Friday 21 - Sunday 23 September
PAINTING AUTUMN PLANTS IN
WATERCOLOUR
Tutor: Christina Hart-Davies (Max no 10)
( see also 24 Feb 17 March & 17 Nov )
A weekend workshop for people with some experience of botanical painting, however little. We shall explore ways of drawing and painting the rich variety of late summer vegetation around Kingcombe. The studio sessions will give you the opportunity to work at your own pace in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and with numbers limited to ten, there will be plenty of individual attention. There will also be demonstrations, discussions and illustrated talks looking at the work of other artists working in this field.
Christina Hart-Davies is a professional botanical artist and an experienced Tutor. She has illustrated many books and is currently working on a new British Flora.
Fees: RC£155, RB £170, NR £130

Friday 21 - Sunday 23 September
PLANTS FOR MEDICINE AND LIFE
Tutor: Christopher Hedley AHG.
Plants provided our ancestors with everything: clothing, food, dyes, drink, medicine, incense and stories were all obtained from the local environment in due season. Most of the lore is still accessible elder trees for example provide 18 different medicines and have over 40 uses. The fields and hedgerows of England are as rich as the Amazonian rain forest. We will explore the plants to be found in the Kingcombe area, learn how to identify them, and discuss their folklore and pharmacology. We will collect samples and prepare simple medicines and meals.
Christopher Hedley is one of the country’s leading herbalists. He has a consulting practice in London and has taught herbal medicine at all levels for many years. His particular interest is the folklore and history of plant use.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Saturday 22 September
YOGA WORKSHOP
Led by Anne Harte, in Beech Cottage
For further details and booking contact
Anne Harte on 01305 853790
(see 27 Jan, 24 March, 23 June, 10 Nov )
Yoga is a philosophy, a science and an art. It develops strength, flexibility and control in the body. The practice of breathing techniques calms the mind, developing enhanced awareness and the ability to be still. Yoga is totally non competitive and so all can develop at their own pace without strain. This day at Kingcombe will have plenty for all to enjoy and benefit from, and is suitable for total beginners.
Anne Harte has many years’ experience of Yoga. She holds two Yoga teaching qualifications and runs Adult Education and private classes in South and West Dorset. Morning and afternoon refreshments will be provided but bring lunch to share.

Monday 24 - Friday 28 September
SOUNDS AND SCENTS OF AUTUMN
A course for visually impaired adults with an interest in the countryside. During the week we shall explore and appreciate the wonderful richness of Dorset’s landscape from coastal habitats and heathland to inland wooded areas.
Concessionary Fees: £155 for visually impaired adults and £105 for sighted spouses/friends attending as guides, or £185 and £135 respectively for Beech Cottage.

Friday 28 - Sunday 30 September
NATURAL HISTORY PHOTOGRAPHY
Tutor: Bob Gibbons
This course is designed to be suitable for both
beginners and more experienced photographers. The weekend will consist of a combination of talks,demonstrations, discussions and field outings to local sites. Both digital and film photography will be covered. Although our field outings will concentrate mainly on more accessible subjects such as plants, insects and landscapes, we will also look at the photography of birds, mammals etc in the indoor sessions, though the content of the course will be adapted to the needs of the participants.
Dr. Bob Gibbons FRPS is a freelance photographer and author, specialising in natural history and conservation. He has written over 30 books, and taken about 300,000 pictures, many of which have been published all over the world. He regularly tutors courses at The Kingcombe Centre, and runs his own wildlife travel company; Natural History Travel.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115 .

Saturday 29 September 10.30 - 4.30pm.
FUNGUS FORAY AT POWERSTOCK
(See also 30 Sept, 16, 24 & 26-28 Oct)
An exploration of one of Dorset’s richest areas of woodland. We will return to the Centre at about 4pm for our tea. Bring a hand lens if you have one and a picnic lunch.
John Wright has over 25 years experience as a member of the BMS and twelve years teaching experience.
Web: www.wildmushrooms.info
Meet at the entrance to Powerstock Common Explorer 117 547974.
Fees: £25, children £7.50. This includes afternoon tea. Numbers are limited so booking in advance is essential.
Our policy on collecting fungi: In order to minimise the impact of collecting on the abundance of the local fungi, we aim to pick just enough specimens for identification and teaching purposes, and to leave the rest to produce their spores and for others to enjoy.

Sunday 30 September 10.30-4.30pm
FUNGUS FORAY AT KINGCOMBE
Leader: John Wright
(See also 29 Sept, 16, 24 & 26-28 Oct)
A day of investigating, identifying and perhaps eating fungi. The day will begin at 10.30am with coffee and an introduction to the species likely to be found; the rest of the morning will be spent in the field. Bring a picnic to have in or around the Centre. After lunch there will be an identification session followed by tea and cake. We shall cook any edible fungi for everyone to try if they wish.
John Wright has over 25 years experience as a member of the BMS and twelve years teaching experience.
Web: www.wildmushrooms.info
Fees:£25,children £7.50. This includes morning refreshments and afternoon tea. Numbers are limited so booking in advance is essential

Monday 1 - Wednesday 3 October
DIGITAL AUDIO VISUAL WORKSHOP
Tutor: Richard Tucker
The world of digital AV technology is making rapid progress and we shall be exploring in a practical way new and existing software which
will enhance the medium. The main software to be covered is Pictures-to Exe. This workshop will cover both the sound and image aspects of the art. The hands on sessions are sure to motivate students to improve their knowledge and skills in this exciting technology. Students should bring any finished sequences or work in progress. You are welcome to bring your laptop.
Richard Tucker is a Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society and former lecturer for the Nikon School. He is a media specialist and an expert on PTE.
web: www.rtfract.com
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Friday 5 - Sunday 7 October
CREATIVE WRITING WEEKEND
Organised by Bath Spa University College
This course is for their MA Creative writing
Students.

Monday 8 - Thursday 11 October
WEST COUNTRY EMBROIDERERS
For further details contact Anne Simspon
01803 782576

Thursday 11 - Sunday 14 October
PRIVATE EARLY MUSIC WEEKEND
Directed by Nancy Hadden

Monday 15 - Friday 19 October
FRUITS, FLOWERS & AUTUMN FOLIAGE
IN WATERCOLOUR
Tutor: Elizabeth Smail FLS, FSBA
Some participants in this course may wish to work towards precise botanical illustration, others simply to enjoy a free style of floral painting. Elizabeth will adapt the course to the skills and needs of those taking part, in an informal and relaxed workshop atmosphere, encouraging for beginners and challenging for the more experienced.
Elizabeth Smail is a Fellow of the Linnean Society of London and holds two SBA Certificates of Botanical Merit. She is a Founder Member of the Society of Botanical Artists and an enthusiastic and experienced tutor.
Fee: RC £290, RB £320, NR £260.

Tuesday 16 October 10.30-4.30pm
KINGCOMBE FUNGUS FORAY
Leader: John Wright
(See also 29, 30 Sept, 24 & 26-28 Oct )
A day of investigating, identifying and perhaps eating fungi. The day will begin at 10.30am with coffee and an introduction to the species likely to be found; the rest of the morning will be spent in the field. Bring a picnic to have in or around the Centre. After lunch there will be an identification session followed by tea and cake. We shall cook any edible fungi for everyone to try if they wish.
John Wright has over 25 years experience as a member of the BMS and twelve years teaching experience.
Web: www.wildmushrooms.info
Fees: £25,children£7.50. This includes morning refreshments and afternoon tea. Numbers are limited so booking in advance is essential.
Our policy on collecting fungi: In order to minimise the impact of collecting on the abundance of the local fungi, we aim to pick just enough specimens for identification and teaching purposes, and to leave the rest to produce their spores and for others to enjoy.

Friday 19 - Sunday 21 October
CREATIVE WRITING WEEKEND
Organised by Bath Spa University College
This course is for their MA Creative writing Students.

Monday 22 - Wednesday 24 October
FAMILY FOSSIL HUNTING FUN
For adults and children aged 8-13
Leader: Chris Pamplin
Join local fossil hunter and walks leader Chris Pamplin to explore the wonders of the Jurassic Coast. The theme of this course is discovering fossils, from ammonites to dinosaurs. You will visit Charmouth and other lesser known localities.
Chris was formerly Earth Science Adviser for the Jurassic Coast and has been leading walks for 10 years.
Join either as a resident or simply for a day.
Fees: Adults £100,
Accompanying children £75,
Beech Cottage Supplement £15 per person.
Non residential rate: Adults £35,
Children £25 per day.
This includes lunch, transport, tutor and evening meal.

Monday 22 - Friday 26 October
BED AND BREAKFAST OPPORTUNITY

Wednesday 24 October 10.30-4.30pm
KINGCOMBE FUNGUS FORAY
Leader: John Wright
(See also 29, 30 Sept, 16, 26-28 Oct )
A day of investigating, identifying and perhaps eating fungi. The day will begin at 10.30am with coffee and an introduction to the species likely to be found; the rest of the morning will be spent in the field. Bring a picnic to have in or around the Centre. After lunch there will be an identification session followed by tea and cake. We shall cook any edible fungi for everyone to try if they wish.
John Wright has over 25 years experience as a member of the BMS and twelve years teaching experience. Web: www.wildmushrooms.info
Fees: £25,children£7.50. This includes morning refreshments and afternoon tea. Numbers are limited so booking in advance is essential
Our policy on collecting fungi: In order to minimise the impact of collecting on the abundance of the local fungi, we aim to pick just enough specimens for identification and teaching purposes, and to leave the rest to produce their spores and for others to enjoy.

Wednesday 24 October 6.30pm
KINGCOMBE EVENING MEAL
(Vegetarians catered for)
Booking essential
Come and join us for an evening by the River Hooke and enjoy a delicious meal using locally sourced ingredients. These evenings are part of our Fundraising efforts for the upgrading of the Centre facilities.
Cost:£12 in advance please.
Two course meal including coffee.
Licensed premises.

Thursday 25 October 11.00am - 4.00pm
APPLE DAY, FREE, Booking ESSENTIAL
A fun day for all the Family with a variety of themed activities. Apple based lunches and teas available

Thursday 25 October 6.30pm
KINGCOMBE EVENING MEAL
(Vegetarians catered for)
Booking essential
Come and join us for an evening by the River Hooke and enjoy a delicious meal using locally sourced ingredients. These evenings are part of our Fundraising efforts for the upgrading of the Centre facilities.
Cost:£12 in advance please.
Two course meal including coffee.
Licensed premises.

Friday 26 - Sunday 28 October
JAZZ WEEKEND
Improvisation workshops
Tutor: Lewis Riley
We will cover a variety of styles from “standard” song repertoire to fusion and Latin, to give a good cross section of music that goes under the heading of “jazz”.
Whatever the style, we will work on improvisation, giving students confidence to take a solo, and to help with this there will be work on harmony, rhythm and jazz scales, but without too much theory. The course will be almost exclusively practical, and would suit players of most instruments, and singers, with some music reading ability. On the Saturday evening we will give a short informal performance.
As well as teaching jazz piano at Dartington College of Arts playing jazz is Lewis’ love. He has played a major role on the jazz course at Dartington International Summer School for 16 years. A composer of over 200 pieces he is the author of Starting to Improvise Jazz Piano.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.
When booking please indicate instrument and approximate level.

Friday 26 - Sunday 28 October
FUNGI IDENTIFICATION WEEKEND
Tutor: John Wright
(See also 29, 30 Sept &16, 24 Oct. )
A weekend introducing the identification and natural history of fungi, designed for beginners and those with a little previous experience. The weekend will be a combination of fieldwork, illustrated talks and indoor sessions using books, keys and microscopes to aid identification.
John Wright has over 25 years experience as a member of the BMS and twelve years teaching experience.
Web: www.wildmushrooms.info
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Friday 2 - Sunday 4 November
RECORDER MUSIC WORKSHOP
Tutor: Paul Clark
Music in a wide variety of styles in many different configurations will keep you busy and afford you endless delight, in Kingcombe’s serene and welcoming ambience.
To enjoy Paul Clark’s twelth recorder ensemble weekend you need to be more than a beginner and have proficiency on at least one C instrument and one F one (e.g. tenor or bass) but please bring all A440 recorders you can carry, from sopranino to contrabass.
Paul Clark has been involved in recorder pursuits countrywide for upwards of forty years and aims to help players in their practice, understanding and enjoyment of music.
Fees: RC £147, RB £162, NR £115.

Thursday 8 November 12.30pm - 4.00pm
BANGERS & MASH & BEETLE DRIVE
On an autumn afternoon come and enjoy good food, good company and fun games. An opportunity to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of The Kingcombe Centre. Come along and support one of several Fund raising events for the upgrading of The Centre facilities.
Cost: £10 in advance please. This includes lunch, games and afternoon tea.

Friday 9 - Sunday 11 November
PRIVATE EMBROIDERY GROUP

Saturday 10 November
YOGA WORKSHOP
Led by Anne Harte, in Beech Cottage
For further details and booking contact
Anne Harte on 01305 853790
(see 27 Jan, 24 March, 23 June & 22 Sept )
Yoga is a philosophy, a science and an art. It develops strength, flexibility and control in the body. The practice of breathing techniques calms the mind, developing enhanced awareness and the ability to be still. Yoga is totally noncompetitive and so all can develop at their own pace without strain. This day at Kingcombe will have plenty for everyone to enjoy and benefit from and is suitable for total beginners.
Anne Harte has many years’ experience of Yoga. She holds two Yoga teaching qualifications and runs Adult Education and private classes in South and West Dorset. Morning and afternoon refreshments will be provided but bring lunch to share.

Sunday 11 November 10am - 4pm
HEDGES & COPPICING
A management day led by Martin Biss
his practical day will provide an opportunity to gain hands-on hedgelaying and coppicing experience.
Martin Biss, formerly a practising farmer at Kingcombe, will show us hedgerow management on the estate since 1987.
Fee: £22.50 in advance please. This includes morning coffee; afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day.

Tuesday 13 - Wednesday 15 November
WILLOW WEAVING WORKSHOP
Tutor: Norah Kennedy. (Max no 10)
This course starts at Tuesday lunchtime.
Two and a half days of weaving colourful willow into shapes of your choice. You may decide to spend the time making one or two baskets or you might want to make a structure or container to support and enhance your garden or perhaps even some simple decorations. Whatever you decide to do you will be helped and encouraged by Norah who is an experienced teacher. There will be supporting materials available to help and inspire you. All equipment is supplied by the tutor. This course is suitable for beginners and improvers.
Norah has been teaching willow workshops at Kingcombe for fifteen years. Her interest lies in making baskets that are “right in themselves and good for use” and reviving at least a portion of the many traditional uses for willow that have been superseded, but not surpassed, by synthetic materials.
Norah Kennedy is a full time basket-maker and teacher.
Fees: RC £150, RB £165, NR £135. with up to £15 for materials payable during the course.

Thursday 16 November 10am – 4pm
XMAS DECORATIONS IN WILLOW
Tutor: Norah Kennedy (Max no 12)
Put away the tinsel and the fairy lights and come and make your very own Christmas decorations from willow – garlands, stars, hearts, Christmas trees, and cornucopias. No experience necessary and great fun!
Fee:£40 in advance please. This includes morning coffee; afternoon tea & cake. Please bring your own lunch. Tea & coffee making facilities are available throughout the day. The cost of materials (about £10) will be due on the day of the course.
Overnight Bed & Breakfast will be available on the Thursday night if required

Friday 16 - Sunday 18 November
MUDDY WELLIES WEEKEND
Join us for a volunteer working session. There
are plenty of tasks to be tackled this season – in the gardens of the Centre, Beech Cottage and general maintenance around the site.
Fee: we ask you to pay £7.50 per night, in advance please, to cover food costs.

Saturday 17 November
BOTANICAL PAINTING WORKSHOP
Tutor: Christina Hart-Davies
(see also 24 Feb, 17 March, 21-23 Sept) To book contact Christina Hart-Davies on 01202 671190
A series of themed workshops for people with some botanical art experience.
Christina Hart-Davies is a professional botanical artist and RHS Gold Medallist. She is an experienced Tutor and has illustrated many gardening and wildflower books. She is currently working on a new British Flora. She has tutored many courses in painting.

Friday 23 – Sunday 25 November
MUDDY WELLIES WEEKEND
Join us for a volunteer working session. We hope to mail out the brochure this weekend and many hands make light work.
Fee: we ask you to pay £7.50 per night, in advance please, to cover food costs.

Sunday 25 November
KINGCOMBE CENTRE
FESTIVE DAY
Guided walk 10.30am
Seasonal lunches 12.15pm
Christmas bazaar 12.15pm
Afternoon teas.
All proceeds to the refurbishment of The Centre facilities.

Sunday 2 December 11.00am - 2.00pm
TREE DRESSING DAY
Come and join us in a celebration of trees at The Kingcombe Centre.
Warm lunches will be available to purchase if required.

Sunday 9 December 12.30pm
KINGCOMBE SEASONAL MEAL
(Vegetarians catered for)
Come and join us for a leisurely Sunday lunch in front of a roaring fire, good food and hospitality.
Cost: £10 in advance please, booking essential. Licensed premises.

Sunday 16 December 12.30pm
KINGCOMBE SEASONAL MEAL
(Vegetarians catered for)
Come and join us for a leisurely Sunday lunch in front of a roaring fire, good food and hospitality.
Cost: £10 in advance please, booking essential. Licensed premises.

Tuesday 1 January 2008 10.30 - 3.30pm
NEW YEAR’S DAY WALK
A leisurely walk in the beautiful West Dorset countryside, leaving the Centre at 10.30am and returning for tea at 3.30 - 4pm. The walk will be approximately 8 miles.
Bring packed lunches.
Fee: £10, children £3

Key to Fees

Key to residential Fees Deposits: Total cost under £200 = £35
RC = Residential Cowshed Total cost over £200 = £50
RB = Residential Beech All deposits are non-refundable
NR = Non-residential and non-transferable

Residential Fees quoted are based on two people sharing a room.
A limited number of rooms for single occupancy are available at an additional cost of £7.50 per night.