Testimonials

Extacts of clients' comments in Mike's visitor's book

 

FINE WOODWORKING
 

I am so grateful that my colleague recommended this course to me so strongly. Mike has the exceptional combined talents of being both an outstanding craftsman and an exceptional teacher, with unlimited patience and the ability to instil confidence and maintain an unflagging sense of humour. I have extended my knowledge and skills way beyond my expectations. Mike, thank you for everything, including a superb piece of furniture to take home.

John Gamon

 

An outstanding 4 weeks … ideal way to wind down after 37 years in the Service… also to improve my somewhat basic woodworking skills… superb craftsman… gifted teacher with the ability to pitch his instruction at just the right level.

Chris Massie Taylor

 

Thank you so much for this superb course I have thoroughly enjoyed my 4 week resettlement … indeed Fine Woodworking goes down as the best course that I have attended in my long and successful 36 year Service career… I am so pleased I saved the best until last!                         My cabinet will take pride of place in my new home… I really look forward to furthering my new found skills in my retirement.  Your patience, dedicated and expert tuition, combined with my stay in your lovely home have been just wonderful…

Pam Wheeler

 

What can I say, excellent course, grade A+++ tuition and superb hospitality. I’ve had a brilliant time and learnt a bagload of stuff.  Thanks to you I have a wonderful table to impress the family, and a jewellery box which will score me brownie points into the next life.

Geoff Howe

 

Thank you for a fantastic seven weeks of resettlement activity. I arrived with the sole goal of being able to do a dovetail joint and leave after some 300 joints with a cabinet that has pride of place in our sitting room, a jewellery chest that my wife can use and enjoy for many years to come. But even more important I have learnt to take life at a slower pace and found a new skill that I will use for the rest of my life.  Thank you for giving me the confidence to work in wood.

Graham Thompson

 

Thank you for a fantastic 2 weeks.  I have thoroughly enjoyed the course which has re-ignited my passion for woodwork.  Mike, you’ve been an inspiring and patient teacher and you’ve both been the most welcoming of hosts.    

Susie Blythell

 

A very informative course well pitched for those with no experience as well as those with some limited experience of working with wood.  Mike is a very patient instructor who strives to bring out the best in all his students. His calm and patient manner has made this course a thoroughly enjoyable and worthwhile endeavour.

Mark Fagan

 

These last 4 weeks have been the most fun I have had in the Service since joining in up 1978. Mike, this course has taught me so much about fine woodworking that I feel comfortable going for a second career with timber in my hands. Your relaxed, funny and informative way of teaching is something you should be proud of. I will tell others leaving the Service about the great time I’ve had.

John March.

 

Words will not be enough to thank you for your unwaving patience. Your instruction has been better than 1st class and you personally have made the five weeks more enjoyable than I could have imagined. A true gent and wonderful craftsman.

Eddie Thomas

 

Thanks for a wonderful 4 weeks. Both the Fine Woodwork and Picture Framing Course were, informative, relaxing and enjoyable; the best course by far in a 30 year career.

Glen Fulland

 

PICTURE FRAMING
 

My thanks for not only giving me a new skill that provides so much satisfaction, but also holds out the possibility of supplementing my pension. Your practical advice and patient instruction on a one to one basis have made this a phenomenally satisfying week. I have even gained some confidence in colour co-ordination and selection.

A.J. Snowball

 

Thank you for a smashing week. I’m chuffed to be taking home a new skill (and the evidence) which I can use into the future. Super set up/course/hospitality,  all very much appreciated.

James (Jim) Martin

 

Great course, have come away with a lot of knowledge and a mini art gallery. Nice room, nice town, nice restaurants. Valley of the Rocks was amazing. Will be coming back.    

Dave Barclay                     

 

Your Picture Framing/surf tips week has been excellent. Now I can do Jen’s paintings proud using the techniques shown here. If only my surfing was as fast to improve! Me ’n’ Mrs H are now convinced that learning breaks are the way to holiday. Thanks again for your time and patience.

John and Jen Hudson

 

Many thanks indeed for what has been a wonderful course.  Exceptional teaching with excellent admin and domestic support have all combined to make this the very best in resettlement.

Andrew Thorpe

 

What a superb week picture framing. I have learnt and achieved so much in such a short time. This couldn’t have been possible without your knowledge and teaching techniques, Mike. All the little tips you have make life so much easier, and give truly professional results. All the pictures I brought with me have had a full transformation thanks to the superb frames I was able to make.     

Richard Moore, Service Photographer