Farm School

Ever wanted to keep poultry or pigs? To make sausages or bacon? Butcher a pig? Pluck a pheasant? Then look no further. The Empire Farm School runs a wide range of different courses throughout the year. The theme running through all our courses is 'From Field to Plate' . We have a teaching room, which can comfortably accommodate up to 16 people. It includes a demonstration kitchen which, on many of our courses, is used to produce demonstration dishes for you to taste.

Smallholder courses are ideal for people who want to own their own small holding, keep a few chickens or pigs or perhaps just want a chance to spend a day on a farm learning about livestock and gaining new skills. We don't just cover the keeping of the animals, but include a session where you can learn about what to do with the meat that you produce.

Our Butchery Courses, which include curing and sausage making courses, are great for smallholders who want to learn how to prepare the meat they have raised, and are also useful for for foodies and chefs who want to extend their skills and get more value out of their meat.

Our preserving courses are taught by Vivien Lloyd. These courses are ideal for people who have a glut of fruit and vegetables in the garden and want to know how to process it into jams, jellies, chutneys and other preserves.

The price of each full day course includes course notes, refreshments, and a light lunch, while half day courses include course notes and refreshments. We offer discounts for the second and subsequent place booked on each course, which is popular with those wishing to bring a partner or friend. We can also offer special rates for larger groups and for individuals wanting to book a series of courses - please telephone us to discuss your requirements in detail.

You can book a place using our online booking system. Course dates can be found on the booking page for each course. We also offer 'A Day at The Empire Farm' Gift Vouchers, which make an ideal present. We can even arrange tailor-made courses for small groups or individuals or for corporate days. Please read our Terms and Conditions for details regarding cancellation etc.

If you would prefer not to use the online payment system to buy these products, please fill in and post us a course booking form.

Soil Association Members

We offer a discount to members of the Soil Association of 25% , up to a maximum of £12.50 per course. To qualify for a discount please quote your membership number when booking. If you are not a member but would like to take advantage of this discount you can join on the day. Membership costs £24.