How Our Courses Are Changing Shape – And Why

From Teaching Woodworking to Creating Opportunities

Initially, we started offering Modern Marquetry and woodworking courses for new, experienced, or simply curious woodworkers—people with spare time and money to invest in learning a craft. But after reading a book (check out this journal entry for more on that - A Fresh Approach, A New Focus) our vision has evolved. Now, we want to use these courses as a platform to do good.

We want to offer the Course and workshops to people in Cornwall who would benefit the most—those who wouldn’t typically have the opportunity to experience something like this. It would be an amazing creative space where people can use their hands, work with tools, and learn not just about marquetry and woodworking but also about us, our career paths, and the choices we’ve made. We want to be open with people, to talk with them about careers, offer guidance where needed, and provide practical skills that could help shape their futures.

The Big Questions We’re Facing

But right now, there are still many unanswered questions… How do we find and reach the right people? How do we get attendees involved? Who decides who gets to participate? Do we need to start a CIC (Community Interest Company) to make this work? How would running a CIC fit with our existing limited company? Would the CIC rent the workshop per hour from the business? How do we pay ourselves—by salary, hourly, or do we not pay ourselves at all?

Recently, I shared a video about these thoughts (watch it here - YouTube Video) and asked for advice on whether we should set up a CIC. A few people reached out with support and guidance, and we’re so grateful for that. But we want to connect with more people, especially charities, organizations already working in this space, and anyone who can help us shape this idea into reality.

Why We’re Taking a New Path

Why are we moving away from selling courses purely as a way to generate revenue for our limited business? Because this feels bigger than that.

As a young boy, I often missed out on school trips and experiences simply because there wasn’t enough money. And I know for a fact that so many people in Cornwall face the same struggles today.

Back when I was in school, I was lucky enough to be picked for an outdoor adventure program. It was designed for kids who weren’t excelling in school—those who found academic achievement a challenge. Looking back, it might have seemed unfair to the rest of the students, but at the time, I didn’t care, because it was epic. We went kayaking, climbing, and played loads of outdoor adventure games.

That experience planted a seed in me. It was my starting block—the moment that led me to study Outdoor Education at university. That, in turn, took me into a decade-long career in the outdoor and expedition industry, working as a freelance instructor across the UK and overseas.

Making a Difference Through Woodworking & Community

Now, we have the opportunity to do something similar for others—but this time through woodworking, craftsmanship, and creativity. We have a workshop, tools, and years of experience, its just how we use it all to bring good. 

If we can use these resources—our skills, our space, and our own life lessons—to make a real difference for people in Cornwall, then that’s something truly special.

So, if you have advice, want to get involved, or know someone we should talk to, please do reach out. Let’s build something meaningful together.