Frequently Asked Questions

There are always a million and one questions that you will want to ask before you decide on which course or indeed bushcraft school is right for you.

Here we try to answer the most common ones that we are asked, but if your question is not answered here, please do not hesitate to get in contact with us.

How do I book a course?
Booking a course is simple – just fill in the contact see on the contact us page and we will do the rest.

Are the class sizes small?
Our class sizes are based on the instructor to student ratio multiplied by course content/student skill level - we deliberately kept some courses small thus ensuring a good instructor student relationship while others where the students are advanced and more skilled we will sometimes have larger groups.

But the same instructor student ratio is maintained – the larger the group the more staff - This means a helping hand and considerate eye is never far away. It also allows us plenty of time for closer personal instruction if and where it is required.

What kit do I need to bring?
Clothing.

Suitable outdoor clothing is essential for all our courses, this should include a woollen jumper or fleece top and several long or short sleeved T-shirts. Cargo or Combat trousers are ideal; so long as they are strong, light and fast drying (look for 65/35 mix poly cotton trousers.) Sturdy hiking boots are a must, as some of the terrain is uneven and rocky. We also recommend you pack a hat and waterproof clothing as well as a windproof jacket.

Put simply - dress for the worst conditions you expect to encounter.

Spare clothing is also recommended to ensure you have a dry layer of clothing to change into should you need to.

Kit List

• Notebook and Pencils (2b)
• Water bottle (1 litre or larger).
• Mug, plate/bowl, knife, fork, spoon.
• Wash kit and Towel.
• Personal medications (if needed)
• Insect repellent.
• Small first aid kit (include Plasters and tweezers)
• Torch with spare set of batteries.
• Tent or similar shelter.
• Sleeping mat.
• Sleeping bag.
• Rucksack to carry it all in.
• Day sack.
• 10 meters of paracord or similar.
• Swimming costume.
• A good sheath knife (one of which is supplied on the Greenhorn course)
• Cookware (where applicable - see below)

Self catering
While it is advisable to always carry a boiling vessel anyway if you are attending a self catering course you are advised to also bring enough food to last the expected duration of the course and an equivalent amount of fuel for your stove.

How do I know that I will gain the skills?
During all phases of your training our staff will thoroughly explain and demonstrate each new skill before allowing you the time to go away and fully acquire it for yourself while still having their attentive support available should you need it.

How fit do I need to be?
Bearclaw Bushcraft skills are not for the armchair survivalist, nor are they a spectator sport. They are practical, field based skills which encourage hands on learning and the development of a greater understanding of nature and our true place within it. Please also bear in mind that as such a reasonable level of fitness will be required.

Are meals provided?
All courses are self catering (unless otherwise stated) and this is one of the reasons we are able to offer such a high standard of instruction for such a reasonable price.

Can I bring Alcohol?
Any type of Alcohol or none-prescription drugs are strictly prohibited from all our courses unless otherwise stated – (while we do understand the social aspects and pleasure of a good pint)

We are not the nanny state or old fuddy duddies so on the occasion where a celebratory drink is acceptable we will prove the drink and brief you on the situation.

Cutting tools and booze/drugs do not mix and as such we ask you not to bring either of the later.

How much food will I need?
While located in the splendid isolation of the forest, students need not worry about running out of rations as shopping facilities are close at hand and most evenings you will be able the visit them if you wish or need.

Can I get a discount?
Members of HM forces can claim 10% discount on all our courses if booking with proof of a serving military address.

We also offer a substantial discount of £150 to all our friends and customers who book the Vildmark and WEISS courses back to back.