About this Event
This two‑day practical workshop offers hands‑on training in the essential craft of hedge laying, a key component of effective hedgerow management. Designed as a natural progression from the Hedgerow Management and Surveying course on 2nd March—which provides a more theory‑focused foundation in surveying and management—this workshop allows participants to put those principles into practice. Training will centre on the Midlands style of hedge laying, a versatile approach that incorporates techniques common across many regional traditions while producing a strong, attractive finished hedge.
What to expect
Day One: Introduction and first practical session
Day one of the workshop sets the foundations for a safe, confident, and rewarding hedge‑laying experience. The morning begins with a clear and practical introduction to the essential safety aspects of hedge laying. Participants are shown the full range of tools they will be using throughout the course, with guidance on correct handling, safe working distances, and best practices to minimise risk.
With safety established, the group is given an overview of the long history and enduring value of hedge laying. The trainer explains how the craft has shaped rural landscapes for centuries, the ecological and agricultural benefits it provides, and how the workshop days will be structured.
The practical session takes place at the work site, where a short section of hedge has already been laid in advance. This serves as a live demonstration of the finished product, giving attendees a clear picture of the standard they will be working towards. The trainer then talks through each stage of the process—how to assess and prepare each stem, where and how to make the cuts, and how to hold and use the tools effectively.
Participants are then paired up, with each pair allocated a 10‑metre section of hedge and a full set of tools. From this point, the learning becomes hands‑on. Trainers move between the groups, offering tailored advice, answering questions, and demonstrating techniques as different scenarios arise. This supportive, practical guidance ensures that every attendee gains confidence and begins developing the skills needed to progress through the rest of the workshop.
Day Two: Practical session part two.
The second day begins with the Attendees meeting the Trainers at the compound before heading straight out to the site to continue their practical hedge‑laying work. The focus for the morning is clear: complete all remaining 10‑metre sections, ensuring each one is properly cut, laid, and joined by early afternoon.
Once the lengths are in place, the Trainers introduce the next key skill—binding the top of the hedge. Starting from the left-hand side, they demonstrate how to work methodically along the entire run, creating a strong, tidy finish. The Attendees then take responsibility for binding the sections they have laid, putting the new technique into practice.
With the binding complete, the group gives the stakes a final tighten, trims the tops, and brings the hedge to its finished form. Tools are gathered in, and the Trainers invite any final questions or reflections on the work completed. With that, the course draws to a close, marking the end of two productive and rewarding days on site.
Location
The Hedge Laying Workshop is taking place at Lochore Country Park, with good condition hedges for laying practise and learning process. The location at the Compound of the Country Park also has good facilities for the initial part of the course, when we cover selection of tools, best practice in the use and care of the tools along with general H&S considerations.
Exact location of the Compound TBC
Trainer
The workshop will be led by Dallas Seawright, Conservation Manager who will be assisted by Guy Robbins, Hedge Laying Instructor. Both Trainers have a long history of over 20 years’ experience in teaching hedge laying skills.
Who is the training for plus important information for attendees.
This is a specific training for FCCAN Members involved in biodiversity projects that could use the skills in hedge laying. It would build their group capacity to involve in better biodiversity conservation.
As this is an outdoor workshop, we advise that you wear suitable outdoor clothing for changeable weather in Scotland including a sturdy shoes.Hedge Laying Workshop All equipment necessary for the course will be provided, but you are advised to bring your own gardening gloves.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Lochore Meadows Country Park, Lochore Meadows Country Park, Lochgelly, United Kingdom
GBP 22.38
