We run courses in a whole range of rural skills and crafts.
- Hedge laying
- Scythe mowing
- Biochar
- Food, fibre and fuel from hedges
- Dry stone walling
- Stone hedging
- Turf hedging
- Tool sharpening
- Hedge management, history and ecology
- Gate making
- Ki Aikido
Scroll down to see details of upcoming courses.
If you are looking for one to one training, or wish to arrange a course on your land please use the contact form to get in touch.
NOTE: Bursaries are available for those on a low income. Please enquire when you book your place.
* G I F T * V O U C H E R S *
Looking for something unique for a loved one for a special occasion? Proper Edges Gift Vouchers can be redeemed against any of our courses, products or services!
Scythe Course for Improvers
Five-hour session to hone your skills
Saturday 18th of April 2026
Scythe Course for Beginners
Comprehensive two-day course
Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th of May 2026
Summer Hedge Tour – The Origins, Ecology and Management of Devon’s Hedges
Includes a cream tea!
Saturday 16th of May 2026
Scythe Course for Beginners
Comprehensive two-day course
Thursday 25th and Friday 26 of June 2026
Scythe Course for Beginners
Comprehensive two-day course
Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th of July 2026
Managing Hedges for Wildlife
In collaboration with Robert Wolton, author of Hedges
Saturday 22nd of August 2026
Proper Hedge Weekend Retreat
Fun and relaxed weekend on our smallholding
12th and 13th of September 2026
Hedge Laying Course (Devon Style)
For all abilities
8th and 9th of October 2026
Hedge Laying Course for Improvers (Devon Style)
Lay your own section under expert guidance
16th of October 2026
Hedge Laying Course (Devon Style)
For all abilities
22nd and 23rd of October 2026
Bill Hook and Axe Sharpening Course
Learn to hone and profile edge tools
24th of October 2026
Biochar Course
Make a soil improver from a waste product
25th of October 2026
Feedback
Jeremy’s style of teaching was fabulous, and he not only inspired me , but also the young lad that I was supporting to attend. His knowledge and experience are incredible and his enthusiasm is infectious! – James L.
Simply the best! Small group learning in a very positive, relaxed atmosphere, with excellent attention to detail. Plenty of individual tuition to enable correct technique. I was amazed how much I remembered after I got home, as there was a lot to take in. – Ann W.
“Easy, friendly, calm teaching style interspersed with stories and humour was a good mix… Stunning setting and peace and quiet a bonus.” – Helen H.
“Jeremy’s courses are informal and relaxed. He allows you to go at your own pace and fills you with as much information and skills as each person can handle. I learnt a lot more than I was expecting as biochar is a big subject but, as Jeremy practices what he preaches, his practical skills match his knowledge base.” – Ken.
“I really enjoyed the pace and there was the right amount of repetition so a felt confident making a start on my garden the next morning. I’ve been scything every day since and my teenage daughter is doing some too.” – Jackie A.
“I found your tuition to be excellent, it was so well delivered, real openness and patience and so very informative and enjoyable.” – Ben B.
“Without any exaggeration I can say it was among the most clear and complete instruction that I have ever had.” – Trevor B.
Proper Edges - Traditional rural skills, training and consultancy 