Our Focus on Firelighting courses give you the opportunity to have time dedicated to learning the skill of firelighting in the wild. We will meet in our woodland and after introductions we will discuss the history of fire and how it has enhanced our species before having a go at building our own firepits and trying out several different methods of firelighting. We will cook lunch together over the group fire, learning how to use the flames to cook our own fish (please inform us of an dietary requirements upon booking).  Over the course of the day we will cover the following:

Fire safety 

The science of fire – what do we need to start a fire and why

Natural tinders – using materials native to the woodland we will discover which plants can be useful in providing us with natural tinders to start fires when out in different environments.

Fire lays and fire pits – a crucial part of firelighting in the wild – learn how to create a good firepit in windy conditions and how to build an effective firelay for a roaring flame. 

Fire by friction – using the primitive Fire Bow (or bow drill) we will discover how friction can be used to make fire. This is a difficult skill to acquire, which demands patience and teamwork, but under the careful guidance of our staff you will soon be transfixed on the task of making your fire. 

Fire strikers  – using ferrocerium rods to create your ignition, we will learn which plants in the woods can be used to light fires in all conditions.

Solar firelighting – if weather conditions allow we will practice using the energy from the sun to create a flame.

Time dependent we may also have the opportunity to demonstrate to you other methods of firelighting.

This will be an interactive and informative day for all who want time to explore firelighting in detail and is likely to book up fast.