Education and Training
I want to inspire a generation of ecological gardeners. Horticulture has been misrepresented in the mainstream as a luxury hobby or a low-skilled career which has affected its reputation. I want to help change the story of horticulture so that it’s seen as a cool and important career choice. I have been fortunate to have gained so much direction and purpose following a career in horticulture and permaculture that I hope to inspire others to follow this path.
Lectures and Talks
I welcome invitations to speak at events, gardening groups and educational centres.
I have a broad knowledge and practical experience in the land-based industry that I am comfortable talking about. I speak passionately about specific specialisms in ecological garden design, regenerative land management and edible horticulture.
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If you are interested in hiring me to talk, I would be glad to hear from you. I hope that sharing this work will inspire others to take up a passionate hobby or career working with plants.
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Previous lectures at The Eden Project, The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew and The Beth Chatto Symposium.
Courses and Workshops
I offer courses and workshops on edible forest gardening, garden design and the business of being an ecological gardener. All teachings are based on my experience and knowledge gained from being a gardener since childhood, running a landscape business for 15 years and generally just being a plant nerd.
I have been lucky enough to have been taught by some incredible facilitators of experiential education and in 2023 I participated in Call of The Wild, a year-long program which facilitates experimental and nature-based education. These experiences have informed my teaching approach. Wherever possible I weave stories, activities, and discussions into my teaching to make learning fun and enjoyable.
I am available and taking bookings to visit your venue, land project or educational centre to host a course or workshop.
Ecological Horticulture CPDs
I am inspired to support gardening companies and crews to implement ecological approaches. These are training days to support and inspire members of your team to implement nature-based solutions to their gardening, design, or landscaping tool kit.
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The focus of the garden and landscape industry is rapidly transitioning towards ecology and sustainability. Every business should be looking to implement current understanding, techniques, and approaches within their practice. I want to help support people in this work.
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After 15 years of running a gardening, design, and landscaping business with a focus on ecological approaches, I have gained skills, knowledge and understanding in a wide range of areas that I am inspired to share. A day can be tailored to your team - whether your main focus is on horticulture, garden design or landscaping, I can create a programme that meets your needs.
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A day would typically be a blend of lectures, discussions, games, and activities. Blended learning helps suit different learning styles and makes learning fun. Previous clients have mentioned how it is also a great team-building day and brings the whole team closer.
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Previous CPD days have been run with Harry Holding Studio and The Society of Garden Designers.
Testimonials
"It was probably the best course I've been on tbh! New thought-provoking ideas, pulling together strands of growing food, novel edibles, meadows, ecology, rewilding and more. Interactive too with games! Yes! Games!"
- Cherry Taylor
"It was a brilliant day. Sid Hill is a natural educator. I learnt so much about plant communities and ecological design. It was interactive and informative and we had a great group of people. The venue was fantastic too. I would recommend!"
- Natalya Scott
"A fabulous workshop with Sid, taking us through his approach to ecological gardening and design with a mix of presentations and group activities. So much inspiration, and his passion and depth of knowledge really shine through. Thoroughly recommended."
- Belinda Cooper
"Sid delivered a brilliant workshop here at Damson Farm. His depth of knowledge and considered approach to structuring the day made it a stimulating and fun experience for everyone involved. Thanks Sid!"
- Alison Jenkins
“I attended a series of three lectures given by Sid on his creative approach to ecological gardening. I was completely inspired and came away with a renewed love for my chosen profession of gardening, brimming with ideas and practical tips. Thanks so much Sid for a brilliant day, I can't recommend you more highly.”
- Rosie Treharne
"Sid carried out a fantastic training day for my business - we're a team of designers and horticulturalists and Sid came to our workplace in London and ran a full day workshop on Ecological Garden Management. It was incredibly insightful and everyone absolutely loved the day. With a careful blend of lectures, fun activities and group discussion we covered a significant range of topics - always making it relatable to work we actually do. I couldn't recommend Sid more highly and would strongly advise upskilling yourself and team through getting him to do a workshop!"
- Harry Holding