Join us to take a full residential PDC-course in Turku, Finland!

Dates: August 7th-18th 2011 (72h in 10 days)

Location: Koroinen, Turku, Finland

Teachers: Aranya (UK), Mari Korhonen (FIN) and local guests

Course language is English with translation help for Finnish speaking students.

This practical, intensive course offers the possibility of significant and positive life changes. Although permaculture is most commonly thought about in connection with gardening & farming, its principles, ethics and design methods can be adapted and used in each individual's own work, interests and home to bring about a more harmonious & sustainable lifestyle. Permaculture offers a perspective on all aspects of building a sustainable future. Permaculture encourages us to use our individual skills, knowledge and interests, whilst drawing on traditional wisdom, science and our innate ability to observe and learn from the world around us.

Participants will gain a clear understanding of how to use the practices of permaculture design and experimental forest gardening in a cold temperate climate like that of Finland. Students will be designing a forest garden to a wild growing garden at the site. Course participants will be awarded the Permaculture Association (Britain)'s internationally recognised Certificate in Permaculture Design.

Koroinen is a historical farm site in the south western coast of Finland. Situated by the river Aura in Turku – the oldest city and former capital of Finland – Koroinen was once the cultural and spiritual centre of the whole South Finland. This peaceful area is diverse in habitats, comprising river valleys, organic fields and meadows rich in wildlife. There are a number of important archaeological sites and historical buildings within the area. Although considered a rural area, Koroinen is situated within a walking distance from the centre of Turku (The European Capital of Culture 2011).

Owned by the city, the farm is a centre for local students of Sustainable development and is being worked as a living test-site for sustainable and ecological living. The venue is being used for courses and workshops in crafts and arts, ecological building, organic gardening and Permaculture. In the years to come, Koroinen will become an important centre for sharing and promoting the use of natural materials and traditional methods. The surrounding fields and allotments are used by the students and local residents to grow organic vegetables and berries. There is also a café and a hostel run by the students.

For full details and how to apply please follow this link.