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Monkton Wyld Court
a magical place
Set amid rolling hills and within walking distance of the stunning Jurassic coast, Monkton Wyld Court has hosted events for adults, children and families for 70 years. Visitors return time and time again - often just to relax as B&B guests. As well as workshops and family weeks, we teach skills for sustainable living: beekeeping, permaculture, eco-building, green technologies, sustainable land use and environmental crafts.
Become a Friend of Monkton Wyld Court and support our ongoing renovation efforts!
For more information download our infosheet or visit the Friends page under 'About the Court'.
Join our email list for quarterly newsletters and occasional updates!
Monkton Wyld Court
Charmouth
Bridport
Dorset
DT6 6DQ
Telephone: 01297 560342
info@monktonwyldcourt.org
Monkton Wyld School is limited company number 361419 and registered charity number 306217.
Monkton Wyld Court
a magical place
Set amid rolling hills and within walking distance of the stunning Jurassic coast, Monkton Wyld Court has hosted events for adults, children and families for 70 years. Visitors return time and time again - often just to relax as B&B guests. As well as workshops and family weeks, we teach skills for sustainable living: beekeeping, permaculture, eco-building, green technologies, sustainable land use and environmental crafts.
Become a Friend of Monkton Wyld Court and support our ongoing renovation efforts!
For more information download our infosheet or visit the Friends page under 'About the Court'.
Join our email list for quarterly newsletters and occasional updates!
Monkton Wyld Court
Charmouth
Bridport
Dorset
DT6 6DQ
Telephone: 01297 560342
info@monktonwyldcourt.org
Monkton Wyld School is limited company number 361419 and registered charity number 306217.
Monkton Wyld Court - centre for sustainable living
near Dorset's Jurassic Coast
August 9th - 14th Bushcraft Family Week
Bushcraft Family Week
with Jonathon Huet supported by Mary Elliott
August 9th - 14th (Mon - Sat)
£275 for the first adult,
£245 for the second adult or youth of 12+,
£175 for each child of 5-12 years,
£80 for each child under 5
Ideal for children aged 7 upwards.
Jonathon Huet of Walk with Trees teaches basic fire skills, cordage making, campfire cooking, and shelter building in this hugely popular family week.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
What people said about Bushcraft Week 2008 and 2009:
"Very special week"
"Jonathon really engaged us all and was very inspiring; Mary is the perfect facilitator..."
"More of a paradise every day"
"I loved the shelter building"
"Food fantastic!"
Contact walkwithtrees@hotmail.com for more information about Jonathon's courses and activities planned.
with Jonathon Huet supported by Mary Elliott
August 9th - 14th (Mon - Sat)
£275 for the first adult,
£245 for the second adult or youth of 12+,
£175 for each child of 5-12 years,
£80 for each child under 5
Ideal for children aged 7 upwards.
Jonathon Huet of Walk with Trees teaches basic fire skills, cordage making, campfire cooking, and shelter building in this hugely popular family week.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
What people said about Bushcraft Week 2008 and 2009:
"Very special week"
"Jonathon really engaged us all and was very inspiring; Mary is the perfect facilitator..."
"More of a paradise every day"
"I loved the shelter building"
"Food fantastic!"
Contact walkwithtrees@hotmail.com for more information about Jonathon's courses and activities planned.
August 10th Monkton Movies
Monkton Movies: Over-50s* Film Night
presents
Codex Alimentarius
*Under-50s
very welcome!
August 10th
(Tuesday)
Film starting at
7:30pm, informal discussion
following
In
Codex
Alimentarius: Making Sickness
Compulsory, Dave
Starbuck interviews Ian R. Crane about 'the UN
plan to eradicate Organic Farming &
destroy the Natural Health
Industry'.
Monkton
Movies: Over 50s Film Night is an
exciting new addition to our monthly events
calendar focusing on the profound connections
between people and the natural world as depicted
through films of various genres. All participants
are invited to propose films for future showings,
and to lead the discussions afterward. And
everyone's urged to bring healthy drinks and
snacks to share on the night!
While the opinions expressed in films chosen are
not necessarily in keeping with the remit of
Monkton Wyld Court, we hope that each choice will
lead to stimulating discussion.
Contact
Monkton by
email or by
phone to book!
This event
was made possible through the generous support of
the Dorset Partnership for Older People
Project.
August 16th - 21st Private Booking: Wyld Group (Mill Hill)
Venue reserved for a private booking.
August 23rd - 28th Theatre Family Week FULLY BOOKED!
Theatre Family Week
FULLY BOOKED!
with Jacqui Kirkland of Chickenshed Theatre Group
August 23rd - 28th (Mon - Sat)
£275 for the first adult,
£245 for the second adult or youth of 12+,
£175 for each child of 5-12 years,
£80 for each child under 5
After an immensely popular week in 2009, Jacqui's back to share the love of storytelling, expression, puppetry, song, dance and all aspects of the theatrical arts! A treat for budding thespians of all ages. The week culminates in a unique performance: your own!
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
What people said about Theatre Week 2009:
"The different elements-- songs/signing, puppet making (individual and communal) combined to make a great community-spirited event."
"Well run, very enthusiastic leader, very inclusive and good with kids of all ages."
"Lovely room, food very appropriate for families."
"Jacqui was great, both with the adults and the kids, and was determined to bring proper theatrical values to our little production. She put a lot of thought/preparation into it, which paid off."
"I would look out for Jacqui again."
with Jacqui Kirkland of Chickenshed Theatre Group
August 23rd - 28th (Mon - Sat)
£275 for the first adult,
£245 for the second adult or youth of 12+,
£175 for each child of 5-12 years,
£80 for each child under 5
After an immensely popular week in 2009, Jacqui's back to share the love of storytelling, expression, puppetry, song, dance and all aspects of the theatrical arts! A treat for budding thespians of all ages. The week culminates in a unique performance: your own!
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
What people said about Theatre Week 2009:
"The different elements-- songs/signing, puppet making (individual and communal) combined to make a great community-spirited event."
"Well run, very enthusiastic leader, very inclusive and good with kids of all ages."
"Lovely room, food very appropriate for families."
"Jacqui was great, both with the adults and the kids, and was determined to bring proper theatrical values to our little production. She put a lot of thought/preparation into it, which paid off."
"I would look out for Jacqui again."
September 3rd - 5th Back to Fool Improvisation Workshop
Back to Fool
with Stella Shaw
September 3rd - 5th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
At this workshop you'll become acquainted with the Fool Tarot card, the card of beginnings. The Fool archetype represents our innocence as we each journey through life's joys and pain. You'll learn some natural improvisation skills drawn from the worlds of performance art and storytelling and have a chance to explore your inner Fool in the role of storyteller in a safe, supportive group.
Aims of the course include:
• To explore concepts represented by the Fool archetype by creating mini-performances,
• To experience connections with earth energies through some gentle bodywork exercises,
• To learn natural drama and storytelling improvisation methods, and
• To watch, devise and perform short solo performance.
Stella Shaw is an artist and storyteller based in Bristol. She has a technical background in Fine Art, 16 years experience of teaching and facilitating artists and performers, and is a member of Equity and The Society for Storytelling.
Since 2000 Stella has studied natural improvisation performance methods associated with The Fool with Franki Anderson (Bristol) and other physical performers. She says, 'I strive towards the creative freedom and inner wisdom inspired by the Fool in my life and work.'
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions. Contact us to check availability.
with Stella Shaw
September 3rd - 5th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
At this workshop you'll become acquainted with the Fool Tarot card, the card of beginnings. The Fool archetype represents our innocence as we each journey through life's joys and pain. You'll learn some natural improvisation skills drawn from the worlds of performance art and storytelling and have a chance to explore your inner Fool in the role of storyteller in a safe, supportive group.
Aims of the course include:
• To explore concepts represented by the Fool archetype by creating mini-performances,
• To experience connections with earth energies through some gentle bodywork exercises,
• To learn natural drama and storytelling improvisation methods, and
• To watch, devise and perform short solo performance.
Stella Shaw is an artist and storyteller based in Bristol. She has a technical background in Fine Art, 16 years experience of teaching and facilitating artists and performers, and is a member of Equity and The Society for Storytelling.
Since 2000 Stella has studied natural improvisation performance methods associated with The Fool with Franki Anderson (Bristol) and other physical performers. She says, 'I strive towards the creative freedom and inner wisdom inspired by the Fool in my life and work.'
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions. Contact us to check availability.
September 4th Lecture & Lunch: Dorset Farmhouses and Cottages
Introduction to Dorset Farmhouses and
Cottages
with Bob Machin
September 4th (Sat)
10am - 2:30pm
£14 organic lunch and grounds tour
The distillation of many years’ research brings a rich history to life through the stories of the homes of its people. Organic lunch and informal viewing of Monkton Wyld’s own 19th-century St Andrews Church and the Court itself included.
Pre-booking essential.
Contact us by email or telephone to check availability and book your place.
with Bob Machin
September 4th (Sat)
10am - 2:30pm
£14 organic lunch and grounds tour
The distillation of many years’ research brings a rich history to life through the stories of the homes of its people. Organic lunch and informal viewing of Monkton Wyld’s own 19th-century St Andrews Church and the Court itself included.
Pre-booking essential.
Contact us by email or telephone to check availability and book your place.
September 8th Local Lunch
Local Lunch
September 8th (Wed)
Informal grounds tour from 12:30,
lunch served at 1pm
only £6! PLEASE BOOK AHEAD.
Come share a taste of Monkton Wyld Court. Join us for a delicious homemade meal. Enjoy fresh ingredients from our own walled garden and other local producers. Take a tour around the house and grounds. We look forward to seeing you here!
September 8th (Wed)
Informal grounds tour from 12:30,
lunch served at 1pm
only £6! PLEASE BOOK AHEAD.
Come share a taste of Monkton Wyld Court. Join us for a delicious homemade meal. Enjoy fresh ingredients from our own walled garden and other local producers. Take a tour around the house and grounds. We look forward to seeing you here!
September 11th Autumn Open Day
Autumn Open Day
September 11th (Sat)
More details to come!
September 11th (Sat)
More details to come!
September 14th Monkton Movies: From the Red to the Silver
Monkton Movies: Over-50s* Film Night
presents
From the Red to the Silver
From the Red to the Silver
A movement film about a woman’s journey through
the menopause.
Created
and directed by Caroline Born
Film
editor River King
September 14th
(Tuesday)
Film starting at 7:30pm, informal discussion
following
*Under-50s very welcome!
A
stunning and evocative film that communicates
through gesture, image and colour with few words.
Menstruation, menopause, and aging are undefined
and unvalued in our society, and older women are
still invisible. This film aims to bring
transparency to these issues, and reclaim a more
positive honouring of the female body. The film
was made on a Devon beach with over 20 dancers
and was part of a Masters in Contemporary visual
art at University College Falmouth.
The film lasts 40 minutes and will be followed by
a facilitated discussion. In previous screenings,
this has shown to be significant in creating a
more open atmosphere around the topics, and gives
time for thoughts and personal sharing’s that may
be evoked by the film, to be spoken and heard.
Caroline Born is a movement artist who has
been performing and teaching for over 30 years.
She will be offering a menopause workshop later
this year.
River,
the cameraman and film editor is her husband and
has accompanied her through the
menopause.
Monkton Movies:
Over 50s Film Night is an
exciting new addition to our monthly events
calendar focusing on the profound connections
between people and the natural world as depicted
through films of various genres. All participants
are invited to propose films for future showings,
and to lead the discussions afterward. And
everyone's urged to bring healthy drinks and
snacks to share on the night!
Contact
Monkton by
email or by
phone to book!
This event
was made possible through the generous support of
the Dorset Partnership for Older People
Project.
September 15th - 19th Venue Booking: Community of Fools
Venue
Booking
Community of Fools
with Angela Knowles
September 15th - 19th (Wed - Sun)
Details to come!
Community of Fools
with Angela Knowles
September 15th - 19th (Wed - Sun)
Details to come!
September 17th - 19th Wild Food in Autumn
Wild Food in Autumn
with Clio Wondrausch
September 17th - 19th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
Leader's Introduction
In this beautiful location we'll learn what wild autumn harvest Mother Earth is offering us. Particularly the season for fruits and roots. We'll wander, gather, prepare and feast upon what we and the cooks make for us. On a walk to the coast I'll introduce you to delicious, nutritious plants along the way. At the beach we'll gather seaweed and prepare and share a beach feast. You need never buy seaweed brought all the way from Japan again! Back home we'll explore the garden for wild food, and cook on an outdoor fire. We'll attune to the Earth, deepen our connection, and learn to gather responsibly caring for and encouraging the wild.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
Learn more about Clio and her work on her website, Wild Hearth.
with Clio Wondrausch
September 17th - 19th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
Leader's Introduction
In this beautiful location we'll learn what wild autumn harvest Mother Earth is offering us. Particularly the season for fruits and roots. We'll wander, gather, prepare and feast upon what we and the cooks make for us. On a walk to the coast I'll introduce you to delicious, nutritious plants along the way. At the beach we'll gather seaweed and prepare and share a beach feast. You need never buy seaweed brought all the way from Japan again! Back home we'll explore the garden for wild food, and cook on an outdoor fire. We'll attune to the Earth, deepen our connection, and learn to gather responsibly caring for and encouraging the wild.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
Learn more about Clio and her work on her website, Wild Hearth.
September 17th - 19th Scything Weekend
Scything Weekend
with Simon Fairlie
September 17th - 19th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential
Leader's Introduction:
Beginners often imagine that a two day scything course is a bit excessive, just to learn how to use a garden tool; and that is true if all you want to do is knock down weeds. But anyone who wants to mow grass on any scale will benefit from a two day course, and people who do them come away saying: "I don't know how you could cram all that into one day".
Two days gives you enough time to prepare your own blade (rather than use the Blue Peter blades that I prepare in advance for the one-day course); you get more time to practice different peening methods; and I also demonstrate how to make and stack a hay rack, which enables you to make hay even in changeable weather.
The course covers
• history and sociology of the scythe, in the UK and abroad;
• selecting the right blade and snath for the job (or making best use of what you've got);
• setting up a scythe and snath;
• peening with a jig, and and introduction to freehand peening with hammer and anvil;
• sharpening;
• mowing technique;
• how to avoid damaging the blade, and how to repair chips and cracks;
• managing grass with scything in mind;
• hay-making by hand;
• making and loading a hayrack.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Simon Fairlie
September 17th - 19th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential
Leader's Introduction:
Beginners often imagine that a two day scything course is a bit excessive, just to learn how to use a garden tool; and that is true if all you want to do is knock down weeds. But anyone who wants to mow grass on any scale will benefit from a two day course, and people who do them come away saying: "I don't know how you could cram all that into one day".
Two days gives you enough time to prepare your own blade (rather than use the Blue Peter blades that I prepare in advance for the one-day course); you get more time to practice different peening methods; and I also demonstrate how to make and stack a hay rack, which enables you to make hay even in changeable weather.
The course covers
• history and sociology of the scythe, in the UK and abroad;
• selecting the right blade and snath for the job (or making best use of what you've got);
• setting up a scythe and snath;
• peening with a jig, and and introduction to freehand peening with hammer and anvil;
• sharpening;
• mowing technique;
• how to avoid damaging the blade, and how to repair chips and cracks;
• managing grass with scything in mind;
• hay-making by hand;
• making and loading a hayrack.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
September 25th Dinner & Music: Julie-Anne Gates and Philip Clouts
Dinner and Music
with Julie-Anne Gates and Philip Clouts
September 25th (Saturday)
Dinner served at 6pm, live music from 7pm
£15 with reservation (£5 kids 5-14)
In September, we're thrilled to welcome London-based vocalist Julie-Anne Gates and renowned local pianist Philip Clouts for a one-time-only special collaboration!
Listen to Julie-Anne and Philip on myspace.
Dinner & Music is a monthly fundraiser event celebrating the fantastic range of international music genres and organic vegetarian cuisine. Each family-friendly evening's lineup includes a delicious homemade three- (or more!) course meal and an ever-changing variety of performance.
Contact Monkton by email or by phone to book or to discuss scheduling your own charity gig!
with Julie-Anne Gates and Philip Clouts
September 25th (Saturday)
Dinner served at 6pm, live music from 7pm
£15 with reservation (£5 kids 5-14)
In September, we're thrilled to welcome London-based vocalist Julie-Anne Gates and renowned local pianist Philip Clouts for a one-time-only special collaboration!
Listen to Julie-Anne and Philip on myspace.
Dinner & Music is a monthly fundraiser event celebrating the fantastic range of international music genres and organic vegetarian cuisine. Each family-friendly evening's lineup includes a delicious homemade three- (or more!) course meal and an ever-changing variety of performance.
Contact Monkton by email or by phone to book or to discuss scheduling your own charity gig!
September 26th - October 1st Garden Work Week
Garden Work Week
September 26th - October 1st (Sun - Fri)
£50 fully residential
Spend a week working alongside the gardeners in our organically-managed Victorian walled kitchen garden and grounds, develop your skills and take time out visiting this beautiful area.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
Some comments from past participants:
'Rachael was great to work with, very knowledgeable, patient and helpful.'
'Love the course and the project, everyone really friendly.'
' I managed to get through a truly awful meeting this morning by imagining myself planting celery and picking strawberries... Clearly the magic has not quite worn off yet.'
September 26th - October 1st (Sun - Fri)
£50 fully residential
Spend a week working alongside the gardeners in our organically-managed Victorian walled kitchen garden and grounds, develop your skills and take time out visiting this beautiful area.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
Some comments from past participants:
'Rachael was great to work with, very knowledgeable, patient and helpful.'
'Love the course and the project, everyone really friendly.'
' I managed to get through a truly awful meeting this morning by imagining myself planting celery and picking strawberries... Clearly the magic has not quite worn off yet.'
October 1st - 3rd Dowsing for Healing
Dowsing for Healing
with Alan Neal
October 1st - 3rd (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
Dowsing and healing are two of the oldest skills known to humanity. Discover how by combining the two we can reveal and correct imbalances within both ourselves and the places we inhabit, restoring a state of health and wellbeing.
To many people, dowsing is something connected solely with the finding of water. Important though this may be, it is a skill with many other aspects, one of which is its use as an aid to healing.
During this course we shall be examining the history and background to healing, how we believe it works and how it can be applied to all living bodies, including areas of the earth troubled by the injurious energies of geopathic stress. Distant, or absent healing will also be covered, and we shall be visiting a nearby holy well and one of the few surviving Medieval healing shrines left in England. As much practical work as possible will be included throughout.
Well-known dowsing practitioner, lecturer and writer Alan Neal is a member of the British Society of Dowsers, as well as a founder member of Tamar Dowsers.
Alan runs courses throughout the South West covering subjects ranging from water-finding and archaeological dowsing to dowsing and healing. He is also a practising member of Unity Healers, which is affiliated to the Healer Practitioner Association International.
Alan has written two books: the easy to follow how-to guide Dowsing in Devon and Cornwall and Ley Lines of the South West, which relates how he traced and followed several of these mysterious phenomena across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.
Alan firmly believes that far from being talents bestowed on the select few, both dowsing and healing are natural abilities common to many of us – if only we have the will, and the faith in ourselves, to try.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Alan Neal
October 1st - 3rd (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
Dowsing and healing are two of the oldest skills known to humanity. Discover how by combining the two we can reveal and correct imbalances within both ourselves and the places we inhabit, restoring a state of health and wellbeing.
To many people, dowsing is something connected solely with the finding of water. Important though this may be, it is a skill with many other aspects, one of which is its use as an aid to healing.
During this course we shall be examining the history and background to healing, how we believe it works and how it can be applied to all living bodies, including areas of the earth troubled by the injurious energies of geopathic stress. Distant, or absent healing will also be covered, and we shall be visiting a nearby holy well and one of the few surviving Medieval healing shrines left in England. As much practical work as possible will be included throughout.
Well-known dowsing practitioner, lecturer and writer Alan Neal is a member of the British Society of Dowsers, as well as a founder member of Tamar Dowsers.
Alan runs courses throughout the South West covering subjects ranging from water-finding and archaeological dowsing to dowsing and healing. He is also a practising member of Unity Healers, which is affiliated to the Healer Practitioner Association International.
Alan has written two books: the easy to follow how-to guide Dowsing in Devon and Cornwall and Ley Lines of the South West, which relates how he traced and followed several of these mysterious phenomena across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.
Alan firmly believes that far from being talents bestowed on the select few, both dowsing and healing are natural abilities common to many of us – if only we have the will, and the faith in ourselves, to try.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
October 1st - 3rd Venue Booking: Eka Yoga Weekend
Venue
Booking
Eka Yoga Weekend
with Janet Evans and Zoe Martin
October 1st - 3rd (Friday - Sunday)
For more information, visit the website or email Zoe Martin, coordinator.
Eka Yoga Weekend
with Janet Evans and Zoe Martin
October 1st - 3rd (Friday - Sunday)
For more information, visit the website or email Zoe Martin, coordinator.
October 8th - 10th Biodynamic Gardening NEW DATES!
Biodynamic Gardening:
an introduction to the practice
and philosophy
with Marina O'Connell
October 8th - 10th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
The course will introduce participants to the thinking and philosphy behind Biodynamc gardening in a simple and experiential way. We will make and use some of the preparations and study the Biodynamic calendar in preparation to start the new growing season using these techniques.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
Marina O'Connell has 20 years experience of Biodynamic growing and has taught these methods at Otley Agricultural College in Suffolk and at The Apricot Centre in Essex.
She runs a small organic fruit farm in the Stour Valley and the Apricot Centre on the farm, working in schools and running a wide range of courses on Sustainable living.
an introduction to the practice
and philosophy
with Marina O'Connell
October 8th - 10th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
The course will introduce participants to the thinking and philosphy behind Biodynamc gardening in a simple and experiential way. We will make and use some of the preparations and study the Biodynamic calendar in preparation to start the new growing season using these techniques.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
Marina O'Connell has 20 years experience of Biodynamic growing and has taught these methods at Otley Agricultural College in Suffolk and at The Apricot Centre in Essex.
She runs a small organic fruit farm in the Stour Valley and the Apricot Centre on the farm, working in schools and running a wide range of courses on Sustainable living.
October 8th - 10th Stress Reduction through Mindfulness
Stress Reduction through Mindfulness
with Sue Howse
October 8th - 10th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
The overall tenor of mindfulness practice is gentle, appreciative and nurturing.
Another way to think of it would be heartfulness. Jon Kabat-Zinn
The course will show you how to disengage the automatic pilot through a variety of meditation practices, training yourselves to pay full attention, on purpose, to the present, without judging. This enables you to live in the present moment, increasing awareness of bodily sensations, thoughts and feelings, so that you can manage them more effectively with a greater ability to relax and deal with stress.
Sue Howse is a BACP accredited psychotherapist and holds an MA in Christian Spirituality from Sarum College. Her training for the use of mindfulness has been gained by working with the mindfulness-based stress-relief programme pioneered by Jon Kabat-Zinn. Sue attends silent retreats at Gaia House in Devon and took the 8 week distance-learning course in mindfulness from Bangor University. She has led retreats and workshops on topics including St Teresa of Avila.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Sue Howse
October 8th - 10th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential (concessions available)
The overall tenor of mindfulness practice is gentle, appreciative and nurturing.
Another way to think of it would be heartfulness. Jon Kabat-Zinn
The course will show you how to disengage the automatic pilot through a variety of meditation practices, training yourselves to pay full attention, on purpose, to the present, without judging. This enables you to live in the present moment, increasing awareness of bodily sensations, thoughts and feelings, so that you can manage them more effectively with a greater ability to relax and deal with stress.
Sue Howse is a BACP accredited psychotherapist and holds an MA in Christian Spirituality from Sarum College. Her training for the use of mindfulness has been gained by working with the mindfulness-based stress-relief programme pioneered by Jon Kabat-Zinn. Sue attends silent retreats at Gaia House in Devon and took the 8 week distance-learning course in mindfulness from Bangor University. She has led retreats and workshops on topics including St Teresa of Avila.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
October 10th Venue Booking: Medicine Wheel
Venue
Booking
Teachings of the Native American Medicine Wheel
with Carolyn Waterstone
October 10th (Sun)
In this workshop, we will explore ways to find harmony with ourselves and our environment, looking at our own paths to self-discovery and spiritual fulfilment. For more information and to book, contact Carolyn Waterstone.
tel: 01460 220653
email: carolynwaterstone@hotmail.com
Teachings of the Native American Medicine Wheel
with Carolyn Waterstone
October 10th (Sun)
In this workshop, we will explore ways to find harmony with ourselves and our environment, looking at our own paths to self-discovery and spiritual fulfilment. For more information and to book, contact Carolyn Waterstone.
tel: 01460 220653
email: carolynwaterstone@hotmail.com
October 13th Local Lunch
Local Lunch
October 13th (Wed)
Informal grounds tour from 12:30,
lunch served at 1pm
only £6! PLEASE BOOK AHEAD.
Come share a taste of Monkton Wyld Court. Join us for a delicious homemade meal. Enjoy fresh ingredients from our own walled garden and other local producers. Take a tour around the house and grounds. We look forward to seeing you here!
October 13th (Wed)
Informal grounds tour from 12:30,
lunch served at 1pm
only £6! PLEASE BOOK AHEAD.
Come share a taste of Monkton Wyld Court. Join us for a delicious homemade meal. Enjoy fresh ingredients from our own walled garden and other local producers. Take a tour around the house and grounds. We look forward to seeing you here!
October 15th - 17th Sacred Drumming
Sacred Drumming
with Doug Blacksmith
October 15th - 17th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential
For millennia the drum has accompanied humans through daily life and our most sacred moments, carrying us into states of ecstasy, trance and healing. Creating a ceremonial and ritual space, inviting the helping spirits, experiencing the power of the drum, letting go, healing, exploring, feeling the pulse. Drumming is a spiritual experience, being with the rhythm of nature. Celebrate the sacred drummer in all of us. I will teach traditional rhythms of Guinea and Mali, along with the history and the cultural context for each piece and the ethnic grouping the music comes from. All levels welcome. Please bring a drum if you have one.
Doug has drummed for ritual, ceremonial and shamanic events for many years.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Doug Blacksmith
October 15th - 17th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential
For millennia the drum has accompanied humans through daily life and our most sacred moments, carrying us into states of ecstasy, trance and healing. Creating a ceremonial and ritual space, inviting the helping spirits, experiencing the power of the drum, letting go, healing, exploring, feeling the pulse. Drumming is a spiritual experience, being with the rhythm of nature. Celebrate the sacred drummer in all of us. I will teach traditional rhythms of Guinea and Mali, along with the history and the cultural context for each piece and the ethnic grouping the music comes from. All levels welcome. Please bring a drum if you have one.
Doug has drummed for ritual, ceremonial and shamanic events for many years.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
October 15th - 18th Low-Impact Smallholding Survey NEW DATES!
Low-Impact Smallholding Survey
with Simon Fairlie, Jyoti Fernandes and Rebecca Laughton
October 815th - 18th (Fri - Mon)
£295 residential, £195 non-residential
(concessions available)
Ask about two-night for Fri - Sun participants
Jyoti Fernandes and Simon Fairlie present a longer version of their popular Introduction to Smallholding course, this time joined by Rebecca Laughton, author of Surviving and Thriving on the Land. The course will cover how to find and buy land, basic grassland management and nutrient cycles, designing a sustainable unit, writing business plans, applying for planning permission and maintaining the energy you need to make it work (among other things!).
This course offers a special chance to learn the practical reality of many of these concepts in the context of site visits to Fivepenny Farm, Tinkers Bubble and other successful local smallholdings.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Simon Fairlie, Jyoti Fernandes and Rebecca Laughton
October 815th - 18th (Fri - Mon)
£295 residential, £195 non-residential
(concessions available)
Ask about two-night for Fri - Sun participants
Jyoti Fernandes and Simon Fairlie present a longer version of their popular Introduction to Smallholding course, this time joined by Rebecca Laughton, author of Surviving and Thriving on the Land. The course will cover how to find and buy land, basic grassland management and nutrient cycles, designing a sustainable unit, writing business plans, applying for planning permission and maintaining the energy you need to make it work (among other things!).
This course offers a special chance to learn the practical reality of many of these concepts in the context of site visits to Fivepenny Farm, Tinkers Bubble and other successful local smallholdings.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
October 22nd - 24th Private Booking
Venue reserved for a private booking.
October 25th - 30th Halloween Family Week
Halloween Family Week
with Dorothy and Anita
October 25th - 30th (Mon - Sat)
£275 for the first adult,
£245 for the second adult or youth of 12+,
£175 for each child of 5-12 years,
£80 for each child under 5
A week of fun, crafts, singing and outdoor activities for all ages with all the Monkton Family Week favourites.
Comments from past participants (8 years old +)
* The way that you're free to do things when you want to. and swing. (good food to)
* I liked the swing and the bonfire on the last night with dragon as it was fun.
* Food superb, everything superb!
* Great leaders with activities for all offered in a welcoming way
* I do not not like anything
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Dorothy and Anita
October 25th - 30th (Mon - Sat)
£275 for the first adult,
£245 for the second adult or youth of 12+,
£175 for each child of 5-12 years,
£80 for each child under 5
A week of fun, crafts, singing and outdoor activities for all ages with all the Monkton Family Week favourites.
Comments from past participants (8 years old +)
* The way that you're free to do things when you want to. and swing. (good food to)
* I liked the swing and the bonfire on the last night with dragon as it was fun.
* Food superb, everything superb!
* Great leaders with activities for all offered in a welcoming way
* I do not not like anything
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
October 30th Dinner & Music: Folkadelica
Dinner and Music
with Folkadelica
October 30th (Saturday)
This month, we're thrilled to welcome a band boasting two previous Monkton residents and their acoustic folky fusion drawing on British and other European folk music, with an African strand.
Dinner & Music is a monthly fundraiser event celebrating the fantastic range of international music genres and organic vegetarian cuisine. Each family-friendly evening's lineup includes a delicious homemade three- (or more!) course meal and an ever-changing variety of performance.
Contact Monkton by email or by phone to book or to discuss scheduling your own charity gig!
with Folkadelica
October 30th (Saturday)
This month, we're thrilled to welcome a band boasting two previous Monkton residents and their acoustic folky fusion drawing on British and other European folk music, with an African strand.
Dinner & Music is a monthly fundraiser event celebrating the fantastic range of international music genres and organic vegetarian cuisine. Each family-friendly evening's lineup includes a delicious homemade three- (or more!) course meal and an ever-changing variety of performance.
Contact Monkton by email or by phone to book or to discuss scheduling your own charity gig!
November 7th - 12th Garden Work Week
Garden Work Week
November 7th - 12th (Sun - Fri)
£50 fully residential
Spend a week working alongside the gardeners in our organically-managed Victorian walled kitchen garden and grounds, develop your skills and take time out visiting this beautiful area.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
Some comments from past participants:
'Rachael was great to work with, very knowledgeable, patient and helpful.'
'Love the course and the project, everyone really friendly.'
November 7th - 12th (Sun - Fri)
£50 fully residential
Spend a week working alongside the gardeners in our organically-managed Victorian walled kitchen garden and grounds, develop your skills and take time out visiting this beautiful area.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
Some comments from past participants:
'Rachael was great to work with, very knowledgeable, patient and helpful.'
'Love the course and the project, everyone really friendly.'
November 10th Local Lunch
Local Lunch
November 10th (Wed)
Informal grounds tour from 12:30,
lunch served at 1pm
only £6! PLEASE BOOK AHEAD.
Come share a taste of Monkton Wyld Court. Join us for a delicious homemade meal. Enjoy fresh ingredients from our own walled garden and other local producers. Take a tour around the house and grounds. We look forward to seeing you here!
November 10th (Wed)
Informal grounds tour from 12:30,
lunch served at 1pm
only £6! PLEASE BOOK AHEAD.
Come share a taste of Monkton Wyld Court. Join us for a delicious homemade meal. Enjoy fresh ingredients from our own walled garden and other local producers. Take a tour around the house and grounds. We look forward to seeing you here!
November 12th - 14th Hedgelaying Weekend
Hedgelaying Weekend
with Jean Pierre Le Bretton
£215 residential / £145 non-residential
A wide-ranging course for the beginner or the out-of-practice, including discussion and hands-on instruction in:
*HSE-standard handsaw usage
*History and variations of hedgelaying throughout the UK
*Entry- and Higher-Level Stewardship (ELS and HLS) schemes
*Hedge preparation
*Hedgelaying
*Protection of the hedge after laying
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Jean Pierre Le Bretton
£215 residential / £145 non-residential
A wide-ranging course for the beginner or the out-of-practice, including discussion and hands-on instruction in:
*HSE-standard handsaw usage
*History and variations of hedgelaying throughout the UK
*Entry- and Higher-Level Stewardship (ELS and HLS) schemes
*Hedge preparation
*Hedgelaying
*Protection of the hedge after laying
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
November 13th Handicrafts Day: Holiday Willow Weaving
Holiday Willow Weaving
with Norah Kennedy
November 13th (Sat)
£30 including all materials
Put away the tinsel and fairy light and come and spend a really enjoyable
day making your own Christmas decorations from willow - you can
expect to make wreaths, hearts, stars, wands, mince pie platters and perhaps even an angel!
See Norah's website for more about her beautiful work.
with Norah Kennedy
November 13th (Sat)
£30 including all materials
Put away the tinsel and fairy light and come and spend a really enjoyable
day making your own Christmas decorations from willow - you can
expect to make wreaths, hearts, stars, wands, mince pie platters and perhaps even an angel!
See Norah's website for more about her beautiful work.
November 26th - 28th Trance-Dance
Firebird Trance-Dance
with Leo Rutherford
November 26th - 28th (Fri - Sun)
£240 residential, £170 non-residential
From the Course Leader:
Firebird Trance is Afro-Brazilian Dance Medicine Magic. It is a unique path into healing and alternate reality. Through the glorious wild abandon and seeming chaos of the Trance-Dance, a new sense of Self and connection with the Universal Order can be realised. Trance-Dance is an ancient healing tradition, as old as humanity.
The Dance takes us naturally and effortlessly from thinking to being, melting into oneness with existence. The Rhythm of the Drum - the heartbeat of Mother Earth - guides the dancer to the magic healing place of deep trance. By inviting Spirit to dance through us, we come to a place of ease with our true nature and can experience the world through the lens of ecstasy, perceiving ourself as part of the Universal Playful Being enjoying The Cosmic Dance.
This form of Trance-Dance is derived from the traditions of West Africa and the Afro-Brazilian cultures, specifically the Candomble and Umbanda, and also the Gnawa Moroccan tradition, all of which have their roots in West Africa. In the background is the unique dancing way of Gabrielle Roth.
This workshop will move you profoundly towards the truth of yourself and your life. The Trance-Dance is a magical catalyst for all sorts to happen and patterns to shift. It enables you to sweep away confusion and delusion and to penetrate to the heart of yourself and to connect with your soul’s divine purpose.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
I have listed Firebird Trance-Dance on ooh.com
For more information on Leo and his work, visit the Eagle's Wing website.
with Leo Rutherford
November 26th - 28th (Fri - Sun)
£240 residential, £170 non-residential
From the Course Leader:
Firebird Trance is Afro-Brazilian Dance Medicine Magic. It is a unique path into healing and alternate reality. Through the glorious wild abandon and seeming chaos of the Trance-Dance, a new sense of Self and connection with the Universal Order can be realised. Trance-Dance is an ancient healing tradition, as old as humanity.
The Dance takes us naturally and effortlessly from thinking to being, melting into oneness with existence. The Rhythm of the Drum - the heartbeat of Mother Earth - guides the dancer to the magic healing place of deep trance. By inviting Spirit to dance through us, we come to a place of ease with our true nature and can experience the world through the lens of ecstasy, perceiving ourself as part of the Universal Playful Being enjoying The Cosmic Dance.
This form of Trance-Dance is derived from the traditions of West Africa and the Afro-Brazilian cultures, specifically the Candomble and Umbanda, and also the Gnawa Moroccan tradition, all of which have their roots in West Africa. In the background is the unique dancing way of Gabrielle Roth.
This workshop will move you profoundly towards the truth of yourself and your life. The Trance-Dance is a magical catalyst for all sorts to happen and patterns to shift. It enables you to sweep away confusion and delusion and to penetrate to the heart of yourself and to connect with your soul’s divine purpose.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
I have listed Firebird Trance-Dance on ooh.com
For more information on Leo and his work, visit the Eagle's Wing website.
December 8th Local Lunch
Local Lunch
December 8th (Wed)
Informal grounds tour from 12:30,
lunch served at 1pm
only £6! PLEASE BOOK AHEAD.
Come share a taste of Monkton Wyld Court. Join us for a delicious homemade meal. Enjoy fresh ingredients from our own walled garden and other local producers. Take a tour around the house and grounds. We look forward to seeing you here!
December 8th (Wed)
Informal grounds tour from 12:30,
lunch served at 1pm
only £6! PLEASE BOOK AHEAD.
Come share a taste of Monkton Wyld Court. Join us for a delicious homemade meal. Enjoy fresh ingredients from our own walled garden and other local producers. Take a tour around the house and grounds. We look forward to seeing you here!
December 23rd - 27th Christmas at the Court
Christmas at the Court
with the MWC Community
December 23rd - 27th
£175 per adult / £130 aged 6 - 18 / £35 under-5s
Come celebrate with us (and let us do the work)! Catherine's mince pies, carols, games, mulled apple juice, craft activities, family free time by the fire, afternoon teas, and Christmas dinner with all the veggie fillings. Why not relax this holiday season? It's our gift to you.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with the MWC Community
December 23rd - 27th
£175 per adult / £130 aged 6 - 18 / £35 under-5s
Come celebrate with us (and let us do the work)! Catherine's mince pies, carols, games, mulled apple juice, craft activities, family free time by the fire, afternoon teas, and Christmas dinner with all the veggie fillings. Why not relax this holiday season? It's our gift to you.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
December 28th - January 3rd Winter Gathering
Winter Gathering
with Mary Elliott
December 28th - January 3rd
£210 per adult / £105 under-15s
Bring-and-share activities, circle time, yoga, therapies, walks, family games, inside and outside fires, handicrafts. Share in karma yoga, cooking and taking care of group areas.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Mary Elliott
December 28th - January 3rd
£210 per adult / £105 under-15s
Bring-and-share activities, circle time, yoga, therapies, walks, family games, inside and outside fires, handicrafts. Share in karma yoga, cooking and taking care of group areas.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
COMING IN JANUARY 2011! Wassailing Weekend
Wassailing Weekend
with Danu Fox
Contact us to be added to the waiting list for this inspiring celebration of seasons and song.
with Danu Fox
Contact us to be added to the waiting list for this inspiring celebration of seasons and song.
January 22nd - February 6th 2011 Permaculture Design
Permaculture Design
with Aranya and the Designed Visions team
January 22nd - February 6th
two weeks, 90 course hours
From the course leader:
This practical course will bring the possibility of significant and positive life changes. Although permaculture is most commonly thought about in connection with gardening & farming, its principles, ethics and design methods can be adapted and used in each individual's own work, interests and home to bring about a more harmonious & sustainable lifestyle. Permaculture offers a perspective on all aspects of building a sustainable future. Permaculture encourages us to use our individual skills, knowledge and interests, whilst drawing on traditional wisdom, science and our innate ability to observe and learn from the world around us.
Course participants will be awarded the Permaculture Association (Britain)'s internationally recognised Certificate in Permaculture Design.
Visit the Designed Visions website for more details and to book on this long-running and much-lauded comprehensive course.
with Aranya and the Designed Visions team
January 22nd - February 6th
two weeks, 90 course hours
From the course leader:
This practical course will bring the possibility of significant and positive life changes. Although permaculture is most commonly thought about in connection with gardening & farming, its principles, ethics and design methods can be adapted and used in each individual's own work, interests and home to bring about a more harmonious & sustainable lifestyle. Permaculture offers a perspective on all aspects of building a sustainable future. Permaculture encourages us to use our individual skills, knowledge and interests, whilst drawing on traditional wisdom, science and our innate ability to observe and learn from the world around us.
Course participants will be awarded the Permaculture Association (Britain)'s internationally recognised Certificate in Permaculture Design.
Visit the Designed Visions website for more details and to book on this long-running and much-lauded comprehensive course.
20 - 25 February Family Work Week
Family Work Week
with the MWC Community
20 - 25 February
£195 per adult / £85 under-15s
At Monkton, Winter is a time for projects: all those things there just isn't time for during the busy summer months (and whatever it takes to keep warm!).
This year, we're inviting all our friends and extended family to join us in our winter work and play. Projects will be designed to suit all ages working together, including cob oven building (and cob oven pizza), some light carpentry work and more! In the kitchen, we'll be baking and scrubbing and perfecting our vegan marshmallows. Of course, there will also be plenty of time for winter walks, delicious meals, crafts and games and just snuggling up in front of the fire.
with the MWC Community
20 - 25 February
£195 per adult / £85 under-15s
At Monkton, Winter is a time for projects: all those things there just isn't time for during the busy summer months (and whatever it takes to keep warm!).
This year, we're inviting all our friends and extended family to join us in our winter work and play. Projects will be designed to suit all ages working together, including cob oven building (and cob oven pizza), some light carpentry work and more! In the kitchen, we'll be baking and scrubbing and perfecting our vegan marshmallows. Of course, there will also be plenty of time for winter walks, delicious meals, crafts and games and just snuggling up in front of the fire.
April 1st - 3rd Nature's Crafts
Nature's Crafts
with Jonathon Huet and Christina Wellbeloved
April 1st - 3rd (Friday - Sunday)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential
Learn traditional crafts such as making a simple wooden bowl, spoon and natural string… and take yours home !
Experience the ancient lore of trees and wild plants coming alive as you identify and use them for food and medicine.
Start the day with age-old energy moving techniques and unwind later with a relaxing shiatsu session.
This weekend is set in the beautiful grounds of Monkton Wyld Court which offers superb wholesome food and comfortable accommodation. If you would like a relaxing and insightful weekend learning new skills in the heart of the Dorset countryside, do come along.
Jonathon Huet has been a keen naturalist for over twenty years. He presents his workshops in an inspiring and original way with the aid of storytelling and poetry.
His partner Christina Wellbeloved will be offering shiatsu treatments and group support with her many years of experience as a therapist.
To learn about shiatsu visit www.youtube.com/shiatsu21.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Jonathon Huet and Christina Wellbeloved
April 1st - 3rd (Friday - Sunday)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential
Learn traditional crafts such as making a simple wooden bowl, spoon and natural string… and take yours home !
Experience the ancient lore of trees and wild plants coming alive as you identify and use them for food and medicine.
Start the day with age-old energy moving techniques and unwind later with a relaxing shiatsu session.
This weekend is set in the beautiful grounds of Monkton Wyld Court which offers superb wholesome food and comfortable accommodation. If you would like a relaxing and insightful weekend learning new skills in the heart of the Dorset countryside, do come along.
Jonathon Huet has been a keen naturalist for over twenty years. He presents his workshops in an inspiring and original way with the aid of storytelling and poetry.
His partner Christina Wellbeloved will be offering shiatsu treatments and group support with her many years of experience as a therapist.
To learn about shiatsu visit www.youtube.com/shiatsu21.
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
May 20th - 23rd Venue Booking: Monkton Wyld School Reunion
Venue
Booking
Monkton Wyld School Reunion
May 20th - 23rd (Friday - Monday)
Roll up, roll up! Spaces are limited.
For more information and to book, email William Scholfield.
Monkton Wyld School Reunion
May 20th - 23rd (Friday - Monday)
Roll up, roll up! Spaces are limited.
For more information and to book, email William Scholfield.
June 10th - 12th Herbs Weekend
Herbs Weekend
with Juliet Fishbourne
June 10th - 12th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential
More details to come!
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
with Juliet Fishbourne
June 10th - 12th (Fri - Sun)
£215 residential, £145 non-residential
More details to come!
Click here to download our course booking form and instructions.
Contact us to check availability.
STILL TO COME! Love Nature Family Week
Love Nature Family Week
with Jan Freeborn and the MWC Community
(as well as various resident small mammals, both flying and grounded)
Contact us to be added to the waiting list for this course!
This family week is devoted to simple, priceless appreciation of the beauty and wonder of the natural world so abundant around us here at Monkton. Children will enjoy gathering floral treasure, making and decorating fossil casts, fashioning clay seed bombs of wildflowers and herbs, meeting the bats and other creatures of Monkton, planting seedlings in their own mini-greenhouses and much more (and learning while they're at it)! Sports activities and a walk to the seashore will also feature, and much of the time will be organised to provide parents a much-deserved break of their own.
Photos of a few of Jan's 2009 small mammal discoveries here.
with Jan Freeborn and the MWC Community
(as well as various resident small mammals, both flying and grounded)
Contact us to be added to the waiting list for this course!
This family week is devoted to simple, priceless appreciation of the beauty and wonder of the natural world so abundant around us here at Monkton. Children will enjoy gathering floral treasure, making and decorating fossil casts, fashioning clay seed bombs of wildflowers and herbs, meeting the bats and other creatures of Monkton, planting seedlings in their own mini-greenhouses and much more (and learning while they're at it)! Sports activities and a walk to the seashore will also feature, and much of the time will be organised to provide parents a much-deserved break of their own.
Photos of a few of Jan's 2009 small mammal discoveries here.
STILL TO COME! Biodiversity Evening Event: Bats in the Belfry
Bats in the Belfry
with Jan Freeborn
from 6:30pm
£1 per person requested for craft activity participants
A family friendly bat evening including a batty crafts activity, a chance to learn about Monkton Wyld's special bats and how to discover more about them and, for those who want to stay out really late, the opportunity to put newly acquired bat detective skills into action. This event is run in partnership with the Dorset Bat Group's Bats in the Belfry project.
Organic evening meal and discounted accommodation available by prior arrangement with Monkton Wyld Court.
with Jan Freeborn
from 6:30pm
£1 per person requested for craft activity participants
A family friendly bat evening including a batty crafts activity, a chance to learn about Monkton Wyld's special bats and how to discover more about them and, for those who want to stay out really late, the opportunity to put newly acquired bat detective skills into action. This event is run in partnership with the Dorset Bat Group's Bats in the Belfry project.
Organic evening meal and discounted accommodation available by prior arrangement with Monkton Wyld Court.