About Hereford Woodcraft Academy

At Hereford Woodcraft Academy, we teach practical carpentry skills through hands-on courses and workshops. Our approach is shaped by experience, guided by tradition, and rooted in the natural character of Herefordshire.

Our work is about learning by doing. From full-day workshops to longer evening courses, we help people build real skills, real confidence, and real projects they can take home.

Our Mission

To teach practical, sustainable carpentry skills in a supportive, well-equipped workshop environment, preserving traditional carpentry techniques while making them accessible to modern learners.

We believe learning should be hands-on, structured, and confidence-building. Every course is designed to help people understand materials, tools, and processes properly, while developing respect for wood and the craft of working with it.

Paul

Paul is a co-founder and lead tutor at the academy, with a lifetime of experience working with wood and passing on traditional carpentry skills.

Having worked as a carpenter from a young age, Paul brings deep practical knowledge, patience, and a belief in learning through making. His teaching style is calm, supportive, and focused on helping people build real competence and confidence in the workshop.

Paul is passionate about preserving traditional craft skills and creating an environment where people of all backgrounds can experience the satisfaction of working with wood and producing something they are proud of.

Phill

Phill, joint co-founder of the academy, brings a blend of creative, technical, and strategic experience to its long-term development.

He studied Fine Art before spending more than 25 years running his successful digital consultancy. After many years of creative and technical work in London and Birmingham, Phill is relocating to Herefordshire to refocus on learning, making, and building with wood.

With experience in design, property renovation, and practical problem-solving, Phill brings structure, clarity, and long-term vision to the academy, supporting its growth while staying true to its craft-led values.

Our Values as Makers and Teachers

Learning Through Making

We believe the best way to learn is by doing. Our teaching is hands-on and practical, built around real projects that develop confidence, capability, and skills that last beyond the workshop.

Respect for Craft

We value traditional woodcraft and the knowledge carried through generations of makers. Our approach combines time-tested techniques with clear instruction, thoughtful use of tools, and modern safety standards.

A Supportive Place to Learn

We believe people learn best when they feel welcome and supported. Our workshops are calm, inclusive spaces where adults of all experience levels can take their time, ask questions, and enjoy the process of learning.

Taking Time to Do Things Well

We value patience, care, and attention to detail. Our teaching encourages people to slow down, focus on the process, and take pride in doing things properly, building skills and confidence through thoughtful, unhurried making.