Helmsdale Charcoal and Coppice
Mike Ellis of Helmsdale Charcoal and Coppice has set up the first ever course in Scotland that carries a nationally recognised qualification in traditional woodland skills.
Located in Helmsdale the course aims to provide grounding in traditional woodland management.
Skills learned include clearing, riving and ring-kiln charcoal making with the emphasis on achieving an understanding of woodland as a resource and its benefits.
The title of the course is Traditional Woodsman’s Coppice and Greenwood Skills.
It is awarded at OCN Level 2status and provides a qualification for people keen to increase their potential to find environmental work.
Mike is a great character and the course has proved very popular with those who have come to learn the skills.